Emerging Strategies in Cartilage Repair and Joint Preservation

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Cartilage repair remains a critical challenge in orthopaedic medicine due to the tissue's limited self-healing ability, contributing to degenerative joint conditions such as osteoarthritis (OA). In response, regenerative medicine has developed advanced therapeutic strategies, including cell-based therapies, gene editing, and bioengineered scaffolds, to promote cartilage regeneration and restore joint function. This narrative review aims to explore the latest developments in cartilage repair techniques, focusing on mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapy, gene-based interventions, and biomaterial innovations. It also discusses the impact of patient-specific factors, such as age, defect size, and cost efficiency, on treatment selection and outcomes. Materials and Methods: This review synthesises findings from recent clinical and preclinical studies published within the last five years, retrieved from the PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases. The search targeted key terms such as "cartilage repair", "stem cell therapy", "gene editing", "biomaterials", and "tissue engineering". Results: Advances in MSC-based therapies, including autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI) and platelet-rich plasma (PRP), have demonstrated promising regenerative potential. Gene-editing tools like CRISPR/Cas9 have facilitated targeted cellular modifications, while novel biomaterials such as hydrogels, biodegradable scaffolds, and 3D-printed constructs have improved mechanical support and tissue integration. Additionally, biophysical stimuli like low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) and electromagnetic fields (EMFs) have enhanced chondrogenic differentiation and matrix production. Treatment decisions are influenced by patient age, cartilage defect size, and financial considerations, highlighting the need for personalised and multimodal approaches. Conclusions: Combining regenerative techniques, including cell-based therapies, gene modifications, and advanced scaffolding, offers a promising pathway towards durable cartilage repair and joint preservation. Future research should focus on refining integrated therapeutic protocols, conducting long-term clinical evaluations, and embracing personalised treatment models driven by artificial intelligence and predictive algorithms.

Keywords: biomaterials; cartilage repair; gene therapy; joint preservation; mesenchymal stem cells; regenerative medicine; tissue engineering.

Figure 1

Overview of key regenerative techniques in cartilage repair.

Figure 2

Poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) porous scaffold for tissue engineering. Enlargement of a pore. The average pore size is 350–550 mm, and the porosity is estimated at 35–45%. © 2004–2024 University of Cambridge https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0/ (accessed on 15 December 2024).