Advanced biomaterials for drug release and tissue engineering: applications in bioactive meniscus prosthesis and thymus organoids

Abstract

Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease with rising global prevalence, characterized by the progressive breakdown of cartilage and bone. While meniscectomy provides temporary relief, it compromises patients' long-term quality of life because of OA onset. New therapies have been developed to prevent the onset of this condition. An emerging approach following total meniscectomy involves replacing the meniscus with a nonbiodegradable prosthesis. This solution helps preserve the patient's natural articular cartilage, thereby reducing the likelihood of osteoarthritis development. However, patients often require prolonged use of anti-inflammatory drugs to manage pain and facilitate prosthesis integration. Conventional administration methods for these drugs pose significant challenges, including adverse side effects from long-term oral intake and discomfort or pain from intra-articular injections.