Evaluation of an AD-MSC Supernatant-Loaded Thermosensitive Hydrogel for Cartilage Protection in Osteoarthritis.

Evidence from laboratory and animal studies provides groundwork for understanding mechanisms and potential before human studies continue.

• Level A · Stronger Clinical Evidence
• Level B · Emerging clinical evidence with positive signals
• Level C · Early human research exploring benefits
• Level D · Scientific groundwork from lab and animal studies
• Emerging · Emerging topic under active research

Abstract (original English)

Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is a degenerative joint disorder characterized by chronic inflammation and progressive cartilage degradation. Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC)-based therapies have demonstrated therapeutic potential; however, increasing evidence suggests that their efficacy primarily arises from paracrine factors, highlighting the potential of cell free approaches. In this study, we developed an injectable, thermosensitive composite hydrogel incorporating adipose-derived MSC (AD-MSC) supernatant within a Pluronic F-127 (PF-127)/sodium hyaluronate (HA) matrix. The hydrogel exhibited a solution state at a low temperature and rapidly transitioned into a stable gel at a physiological temperature without chemical crosslinkers. Microstructural analysis revealed a porous, interconnected three-dimensional network favorable for the sustained release of bioactive factors. In a rat model of KOA, intra-articular administration of the AD-MSC supernatant-loaded hydrogel significantly improved joint architecture and locomotor performance, alleviated synovial inflammation, and preserved cartilage integrity. Radiographic and histological assessments demonstrated reduced cartilage degeneration and subchondral bone alterations. Moreover, the treatment markedly decreased intra-articular levels of proinflammatory cytokines (IL-1β and TNF-α) and the cartilage degradation marker CTX-II in a time-

Evidence level

Evidence from laboratory and animal studies provides groundwork for understanding mechanisms and potential before human studies continue.

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