Intra-articular targeted delivery of nanomaterials for the treatment of osteoarthritis: focusing on cell signaling pathway mechanisms

INTRODUCTION: This review summarizes the application of nanomaterial-mediated intra-articular targeted drug delivery systems in the treatment of osteoarthritis (OA) and their regulatory mechanisms on key cellular signaling pathways. Studies have shown that novel nanocarriers can effectively load, deliver, and controllably release therapeutic agents, significantly enhancing drug bioavailability and reducing systemic toxicity. By precisely modulating signaling pathways, nanomaterials (NM) can effectively suppress inflammatory responses, alleviate oxidative stress, promote chondrocyte anabolism, delay extracellular matrix degradation, and regulate programmed cell death. This study highlights the potential of NM as a multi-target, synergistic therapeutic strategy for OA intervention, providing a theoretical and experimental basis for the development of next-generation precision therapies for OA. AREAS COVERED: This paper reviews the research progress of nano-drug delivery technology in the treatment of joint diseases, focusing on the potential mechanisms of targeted drug delivery and retention, promoting regeneration and repair, and realizing anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. We identified relevant literature through PubMed and Web of Science, focusing on studies published over the past five years. EXPERT OPINION: Nanomaterials for osteoarthritis treatment are evolving from passive drug carriers to intelligently responsive, targeted multifunctional systems capable of personalized, proactive, and regenerative therapy, overcoming current limitations in toxicity and delivery precision.