[The role of immune cells in the pathogenesis and progression of osteoarthritis warrants attention].

Abstract

Chronic inflammatory infiltration in osteoarthritis (OA) suggests the pivotal contribution of immune cells to disease pathogenesis. This review examines the contributions of both innate immune cells (neutrophils, macrophages, mast cells, natural killer cells, dendritic cells, eosinophils and basophils) and adaptive immune cells (T lymphocytes and B lymphocytes) in OA pathogenesis. This article focuses on the activation and differentiation mechanisms of these immune cells, elucidating their roles in driving synovial inflammation, cartilage degradation, subchondral bone remodeling and osteophyte formation. Furthermore, we discuss the limitations of current research and propose potential avenues for future investigations.