Next-generation osteoarthritis models: integrating biological, computational, and engineering approaches

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)

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a complex degenerative joint disease with substantial global health implications, yet effective disease-modifying treatments remain elusive. This review explores next-generation models revolutionizing OA research, including microfluidic organ-on-a-chip (OOAC) platforms, organoid systems, computational modelling, finite element analysis (FEA), and artificial intelligence (AI). OOAC systems replicate joint microenvironments, integrating biomechanical stimulation and dynamic tissue interactions, thereby enabling precise investigations of inflammatory and degenerative processes. While organoid technologies capture cellular heterogeneity and self-organization, they primarily serve as static, multicellular models rather than dynamic biomechanical systems. FEA provides high-resolution, patient-specific simulations of joint mechanics and cartilage degeneration, offering insights into mechanical stress distribution and OA progression. Computational modelling and AI enhance predictive capabilities, facilitating precision medicine approaches and optimizing treatment strategies. Despite significant advancements, critical challenges remain, particularly regarding biological fidelity, cross-model integration, and clinical translation. Ensuring computer-based model validation against curated, high-quality datasets-including patient-derived biomechanical, imaging, and mo

Evidence level

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

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