Engineered Injectable Hydrogel Platform for Tailoring the Osteoarthritis Microenvironment

Osteoarthritis (OA) represents a self-sustaining degenerative process characterized by maladaptive interactions among the cartilage, bone, and synovium triads, with current palliative treatments falling short of addressing its pathophysiological intricacies. Recently, injectable hydrogels specifically designed to tackle the distinct challenges of OA have emerged as a potential solution, offering significant advantages over traditional therapies through innovative integration. This review offers a comprehensive examination of the latest advancements in injectable hydrogel-based therapies for managing OA. First, we dissect the molecular and cellular mechanisms that drive OA progression, placing specific attention on microenvironmental dysregulation. Next, we analyze various hydrogel design strategies, such as matrix composition, crosslinking methods, and stimulus-responsive release, that influence mechanical strength and therapeutic precision. Additionally, we discuss the multifunctional potential of engineered hydrogels, particularly their exceptional ability to support targeted drug delivery. Finally, this review emphasizes the novel potential of these engineered systems to address the unique challenges related to OA management while overcoming the limitations of existing therapies, thereby positioning them as transformative tools for future clinical applications.