Nanozyme-Enhanced Injectable Hydrogel for the Treatment of Osteoarthritis

Abstract The tissue pathological changes of osteoarthritis (OA) encompass degenerative alterations in articular cartilage, peripheral bone proliferation, and synovial inflammation. The progression of OA is dramatically accelerated by the reactive oxygen species (ROS)-induced apoptosis of chondrocytes and the inflammatory response of synovial macrophages. The bone joint microenvironment refers to the biological environment inside the bone joints, which impacts the survival and function of cells within the bone joints. The interaction between the imbalance of the microenvironment and excessive generation of ROS promotes the development of arthritis. To address this issue, we have developed an injectable hydrogel with catalase-mimic nanozyme activity as a therapeutic agent for OA. The prepared nanozyme-reinforced hydrogels capable of not only eliminating ROS and inflammatory cytokines but also inducing the transformation of M1 macrophages into M2 phenotype in the harsh microenvironment. The dual mechanism enhances the repair of cartilage and facilitates the reduction of osteophyte formation in OA by improving the microenvironment within the joints. Our research has introduced an innovative treatment strategy for the clinical management of OA, demonstrating significant potential for its application in treating OA.