Advancements in cartilage tissue regeneration: harnessing nano- and microtechnology for enhanced mesenchymal stem cells delivery in osteoarthritis treatment.

Osteoarthritis (OA), a debilitating condition linked to aging and injury, lacks effective treatments due to limited cartilage repair. Conventional methods often fall short, prompting exploration of innovative solutions. Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapy exhibits potential in the treatment of OA by stimulating the growth of new cartilage and diminishing inflammation. However, limited cell survival and retention hinder its effectiveness. Nano- and microcarrier technology offers a groundbreaking approach. By encapsulating and delivering MSCs, these biomaterial-based carriers improve cell viability and targeted delivery. This review explores recent advancements in nano- and microcarriers, highlighting their potential to overcome limitations of traditional delivery methods in OA therapy. It delves into how these advanced systems facilitate targeted MSC delivery, paving the way for a revolution in cartilage regeneration. By providing a comprehensive understanding of the current state of MSC-based therapy and its synergy with advanced delivery platforms, this review emphasizes the potential of nano- and microcarriers for efficient and long-lasting OA treatment.