Injectable biomimetic hybrid nanofibers for targeting cartilage in early osteoarthritis treatment

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease characterized by cartilage degradation and limited effective treatment options for regeneration. To address this clinical challenge, an innovative injectable biomimetic hybrid nanofiber, namely hyaluronic acid-graft-poly(2-methacryloyloxyethyl phosphorylcholine)-chondrocyte affinity peptides (HA-PMPC-CAP), was designed and synthesized through a ultraviolet light (UV)-initiated reaction process for intervention of early osteoarthritis (OA). Comprehensive in vitro assessments and molecular docking experiments have confirmed its non-cytotoxicity, exceptional lubrication properties, favorable biocompatibility and high binding affinity to cartilage proteins. Utilizing an OA rat model, the therapeutic potential of HA-PMPC-CAP was explored through intra-articular injection, with a focus on its impact on cartilage regeneration. During an 8-week period, macroscopic, histological, immunohistochemical, and microscopic CT evaluations were conducted on the treated joints. The findings were remarkable: HA-PMPC-CAP established a durable lubricating layer on the surface of cartilage, significantly reduced cartilage deterioration, replenished glycosaminoglycan (GAG) levels, lowered the scores of Osteoarthritis Research Society International (OARSI), and curtailed the development of osteophytes, which was superior to the untreated OA control groups. These results position HA-PMPC-CAP as an effective biomimetic therapy, offering a novel strategy for cartilage regeneration and lubrication in the early stages of OA, which has promising implications for future clinical applications.