An Injectable PEG/Diacerein-Based Anti-Inflammatory Hydrogel for Promoting Cartilage Regeneration: An In Vivo Study

Cartilage defects are common joint disorders that, if left untreated, may progress to severe degenerative joint conditions. Inflammatory response plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of cartilage damage. Hydrogels incorporating diacerein, an anti-inflammatory drug used in clinical settings, can mitigate inflammation that impairs cartilage repair. It is hypothesized that the direct injection of a hydrogel scaffold combining diacerein and polydopamine into cartilage defect sites can enhance localized treatment, reduce surgical risks, and expedite recovery. Therefore, in this study, a hydrogel infused with diacerein is developed to investigate its efficacy for cartilage restoration. By crosslinking poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate, four-arm polyethylene glycol-functionalized diacerein, hyaluronic acid, and polydopamine, an injectable hydrogel with superior properties is achieved. In vitro evaluations confirm the mechanical strength and biocompatibility of the hydrogel, and in vivo studies demonstrate its effectiveness in cartilage repair and anti-inflammatory activity in a rat model. These findings indicate that hydrogels are promising materials for addressing cartilage defects and advancing tissue engineering and biological implantation strategies.