Cryogel-based therapeutic platforms for disease modification in osteoarthritis.

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a leading cause of chronic pain and disability, and lacks disease-modifying therapies. Unlike conventional hydrogels, which suffer from poor mechanical robustness and limited retention, cryogels overcome existing limitations through their interconnected pore architecture, shape-memory behavior, and fatigue-resistant mechanics. Here, we review how cryogels are being engineered as platforms for stem cell delivery, bioactive molecule release, localized gene activation, and immunomodulation, and discuss key translation challenges.