Osteoarthritis: New Insights into Mechanisms, Diagnosis, Therapy and Management

Dear Colleagues,

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a multifactorial, progressive joint disease representing one of the most prevalent causes of disability worldwide. Traditionally considered a degenerative condition affecting articular cartilage, OA is now increasingly recognized as a complex disorder involving multiple joint tissues, inflammatory pathways, and systemic factors. Recent advances have reshaped our understanding of OA pathogenesis, unveiling the roles of subchondral bone remodeling, synovial inflammation, and metabolic dysregulation.

At the same time, diagnostic approaches are evolving. Beyond conventional radiography, novel imaging modalities and biomarker analysis are allowing for earlier detection and more accurate monitoring of disease progression. Technological innovations are transforming OA research and clinical practice: 3D printing is being explored for personalized joint implants and cartilage scaffolds, artificial intelligence (AI) is enhancing diagnostic precision through image analysis and predictive modeling, and augmented reality (AR) is finding emerging roles in surgical planning and education.

Therapeutically, the landscape is shifting from purely symptomatic treatments to interventions aimed at modifying disease progression. This includes targeted pharmacological agents, regenerative medicine approaches, and biomechanical strategies tailored to the individual patient.

This Special Issue aims to explore these new insights into the mechanisms, diagnosis, therapy, and management of osteoarthritis. We invite researchers and clinicians to submit original research articles and comprehensive reviews that contribute to advancing the field—especially those highlighting the impact of emerging technologies on OA care and innovation.

Dr. Tommaso Greco
Dr. Carlo Perisano
Guest Editors

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