Quercetin Nanocarrier-Loaded Dual Network Injectable Hydrogel for Mesenchymal Stem Cells Delivery Targeting Osteoarthritis

Apr 16, 2026

Osteoarthritis requires therapies that modify disease progression, but current options largely provide palliative effects while stem cell survival and retention are hindered by ROS and inflammation. A dual-network gelatin methacrylate (GelMA)/κ-carrageenan injectable hydrogel was developed, loaded with quercetin-PLGA nanoparticles for mesenchymal stem cell delivery. The hydrogel showed stable gelation, controlled degradation, and self-healing; sustained quercetin release reduced ROS and pro-inflammatory markers while promoting pro-regenerative gene and ECM expression, improved macrophage polarization and collagen II deposition in vitro, and enhanced glycosaminoglycan deposition, reduced inflammation, improved joint mobility, and supported cartilage repair in vivo.

Share with

Apr 16, 2026