The Protective Effect of Decellularized Extracellular Matrix in Osteoarthritis: An In Vitro and In Vivo Study in Rat Model

Background/Aim: Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease affecting both humans and companion animals, characterized by progressive cartilage destruction, inflammation, and functional impairment. Current therapies provide mainly symptomatic relief, emphasizing the need for regenerative strategies. Decellularized extracellular matrix (dECM) hydrogels preserve native biochemical cues and biocompatibility, making them potential candidates for cartilage protection and regeneration. This study aimed to evaluate the biocompatibility, anti-inflammatory activity, and chondroprotective potential of meniscus-derived dECM (Meni-dECM) hydrogel. Materials and Methods: Meniscus tissue was decellularized and processed into hydrogel form. In vitro cytocompatibility and chondrogenic potential were assessed using stem cells cultured within the hydrogel. For in vivo evaluation, OA was induced in rats by intra-articular monosodium iodoacetate (MIA) injection. The therapeutic efficacy of intra-articularly injected Meni-dECM hydrogel was compared with control using gross joint assessment, cytokine analysis, and histological evaluation. Results: In vitro assays confirmed excellent cell viability, proliferation, and upregulation of chondrogenic gene expression within the Meni-dECM hydrogel. In vivo, Meni-dECM-treated rats exhibited significantly reduced joint swelling, lower serum levels of IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α, and improved cartilage preservation compared with control. Histological analysis revealed decreased synovial hyperplasia, reduced inflammatory infiltration, and enhanced proteoglycan retention in Meni-dECM-treated joints. Conclusion: Meni-dECM hydrogels demonstrated protective effects against OA progression by modulating inflammation and preserving cartilage architecture. These findings support Meni-dECM hydrogel as a promising injectable biomaterial for OA management in both veterinary and translational medicine. Further studies are warranted to confirm long-term stability, elucidate molecular mechanisms, and evaluate clinical feasibility.