Microalgae-Derived Extracellular Vesicles Synergize with Herbal Hydrogel for Energy Homeostasis in Osteoarthritis Treatment

Treatment of osteoarthritis (OA) remains challenging owing to its complex pathological microenvironment, which involves reactive oxygen species, chronic inflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, energy deficiency, and cartilage degeneration. Herein, we report for extracellular vesicles (SP-EVs) derived from the photosynthetic microorganism Spirulina platensis contain antioxidative and ATP-dependent active and metabolic-related compounds for OA treatment. SP-EVs were effectively delivered to chondrocytes, demonstrating the potential for modulating cellular communication and energy homeostasis. To facilitate sustained delivery of SP-EVs, the rhein hydrogel system was used for intra-articular injection (Rh…

• NN
  National Natural Science Foundation of China

  Award: 82302790
• NS
  Natural Science Foundation of Shandong Province

  Award: ZR2023ZD30
• NK
  National Key Research and Development Program of China

  Award: 2022YFA1105200
• NS
  Natural Science Foundation of Zhejiang Province

  Award: LQ23H150004