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Molecular Advances in Intra-Articular Injections for Knee Osteoarthritis
Juan M Roman-Belmonte1, Hortensia De la Corte-Rodriguez2, E Carlos Rodriguez-Merchan3
1Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Hospital de la Cruz Roja San José y Santa Adela, 28003 Madrid, Spain.
Frontiers in Bioscience (Landmark Edition)
|July 30, 2026
Summary
Intra-articular injections offer various approaches for managing knee osteoarthritis (KOA) by targeting inflammation and promoting repair. While corticosteroids provide short-term relief, regenerative therapies like PRP and MSCs show promise for long-term benefits.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Regenerative Medicine
- Immunology
Background:
- Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is a complex musculoskeletal condition involving cartilage degradation and chronic inflammation.
- KOA is increasingly recognized as an inflammatory process driven by immune cells and molecular pathways.
- Intra-articular injections are a key management strategy for KOA.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent molecular advances in intra-articular injection therapies for KOA.
- To outline the proposed mechanisms of action for these therapies.
- To discuss the potential and limitations of current and emerging KOA treatments.
Main Methods:
- Review of current literature on intra-articular injection therapies for KOA.
- Analysis of proposed molecular mechanisms and clinical evidence.
- Synthesis of information on corticosteroids, hyaluronic acid, PRP, MSCs, exosomes, and other novel agents.
Main Results:
- Corticosteroid injections offer short-term pain relief but may harm cartilage with repeated use.
- Hyaluronic acid improves lubrication and modulates inflammation, especially in early KOA.
- Platelet-rich plasma and mesenchymal stem cells show potential for tissue repair and inflammation modulation.
- Emerging therapies like exosomes and fat-derived orthobiologics demonstrate promise for regenerative approaches.
Conclusions:
- Intra-articular interventions are crucial for KOA management.
- Regenerative therapies offer promising avenues for tissue repair and inflammation control.
- Further research is needed to establish the long-term structural efficacy of these treatments.