Biomaterials in cartilage damage

Aim: Cartilage tissue degradation is a common symptom of diseases affecting the musculoskeletal system. Impairment of its function can occur due to numerous factors, both external and internal. Thanks to advances in imaging techniques, identifying pathologies in cartilage tissue is becoming increasingly common, leading to a search for optimal treatment methods. Human cartilage has a limited capacity for self-repair. Treatments such as transplants have many limitations, which is why biocompatible materials are becoming increasingly popular. This article presents selected biomaterials that may be useful in the treatment of cartilage pathologies. Current research on the use of biomaterials in cartilage regeneration was analyzed.

Materials and Methods: The research material consisted of scientific publications describing the use of natural and synthetic scaffolds in animal models and clinical trials. Particular attention was paid to gelatin, silk fibroin, polylactic acid, polycaprolactone, poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid), and commercial biomimetic scaffolds. Methods included analysis of mechanical properties, biocompatibility, and the ability to support chondrogenesis.

Conclusions: The study results indicate that appropriately modified biomaterials can effectively support cartilage regeneration and improve its structure and function. Further research is needed to improve the treatment of cartilage injuries and diseases, and to optimize biomaterials used in cartilage tissue engineering.