Multifunctional liposomes for staged osteoarthritis therapy: From symptom management to regeneration.

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a progressive joint disease inadequately addressed by current symptomatic treatments based on therapeutic agents such as NSAIDs, corticosteroids, and viscosupplements, which are limited by poor retention, insufficient efficacy, and a lack of regenerative benefit. Liposomes have recently emerged as versatile carriers that may support stage-aligned interventions from early lubrication to advanced cartilage regeneration. This article summarizes OA pathophysiology and therapeutic targets, with emphasis on the application of liposomes as lubricants, drug delivery systems, and imaging agents. In addition, particular attention is paid to multifunctional liposomes that integrate lubrication with anti-inflammatory, analgesic, pro-regenerative, and imaging capabilities, offering a unified strategy for addressing the complex dynamic progression of OA. Liposome-based strategies are increasingly being recognized as comprehensive and disease-modifying interventions.