Injectable Smart Hydrogels for the Treatment of Osteoarthritis

Abstract

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a major chronic and degenerative condition that affects, more frequently, the aging population. Current clinical therapies for OA can only relieve symptoms. The introduction of novel therapy regimens has been made easier by a greater understanding of the pathophysiology of OA; however, it is still difficult to deliver therapies to target locations with minimal invasiveness, high retention, and few adverse effects. Biocompatible injectable smart hydrogels hold great promise for the controlled delivery and release of medicines and biomolecules for tissue healing. In the present chapter, more insight is provided on OA and the conventional modalities employed for its treatment. Moreover, the fabrication of hydrogels and the integration of stimuli-responsive moieties for the design of smart hydrogels for the treatment of OA are discussed. On the other hand, a succinct discussion of how the features and composition of these hydrogels affect the treatment of OA is presented. Additionally presented are the methods for the utilization of these hydrogels as cargoes for delivery of various therapies and growth factors and how they could target diverse portions of the injured joints in order to effectively treat OA. In conclusion, the most recent efforts to fabricate smart injectable hydrogels for the treatment of OA are paving the way for further advancement to refine the outcomes of OA treatment.