Intra-articular injection of MOF-based nanomaterials for the treatment of osteoarthritis by modulating the bone microenvironment

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease characterized by cartilage degradation, subchondral bone remodeling, and chronic inflammation. Current therapeutic strategies often fail to address the underlying mechanisms of OA. This study investigates the efficacy of ZIF-8 composite molybdenum (Mo) nanozymes coated by CaCO3 layer (CaCO3@ZIF@Mo-TA) as a novel therapeutic approach for OA. The nanozymes were characterized using various techniques, including transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). In vivo studies demonstrated that administration of CaCO3@ZIF-8@Mo-TA at a dose of 100 mg/kg significantly improved joint health, reduced inflammation, and enhanced cartilage preservation in an OA rat model. Mechanistic studies revealed that the nanozymes exerted antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects by modulating key signaling pathways, including the NLRP3 inflammasome. These findings suggest that ZIF-8@Mo-TA nanozymes represent a promising therapeutic strategy for OA management.