A new method for fighting arthritis has been created

Researchers from Chongqing Medical University have created an innovative method for cartilage tissue regeneration that could change the approach to treating joint injuries and age-related changes. The results of this promising study have been published in the authoritative scientific journal Research.

As specialists note, cartilage tissue recovers extremely poorly due to the absence of blood vessels. Cartilage damage, whether traumatic or age-related, often leads to irreversible tissue destruction and the development of osteoarthritis. Existing treatment methods, including microfracturing and cell transplantation, are associated with serious limitations - from possible complications to donor material shortages and immune rejection.

In search of an effective solution, scientists applied an innovative approach. They used mesenchymal stromal cells that were pre-treated with three bioactive substances: interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor, and interferon-gamma. After such preparation, an extracellular matrix was isolated from the cells - a specialized protein structure rich in components necessary for cartilage restoration, including collagen and laminin.

The most impressive results were shown by the matrix created using interferon-gamma - an inflammatory molecule that plays a key role in the immune response. This matrix not only stimulated regeneration but also suppressed the production of enzymes that destroy cartilage tissue.

Animal experiments demonstrated the high effectiveness of the method: 12 weeks after the microfracturing procedure with the addition of the developed matrix, the regenerated tissue was practically indistinguishable from healthy cartilage. The new methodology opens up possibilities not only for treating damage but also for creating biomaterials with specified properties that can purposefully influence tissue restoration.

The study authors believe that their technology could become the basis for innovative therapeutic methods that avoid transplantation, reduce the risk of complications, and in some cases even replace prosthetics. However, additional human studies are necessary before implementation in clinical practice.