Innovations in Immunometabolic Treatment and Controlled Release Systems for Bone and Joint Disorders

Bone and joint disorders have emerged as a significant global health concern, especially prevalent among the aging populations. These disorders are characterized by chronic inflammation, degeneration, and tissue injuries within the skeletal system, where immune and metabolic dysfunctions are central to disease escalation. Despite the utilization of traditional treatments targeting these immunometabolic abnormalities to decelerate disease progression, current modalities often fall short of reversing the conditions and commonly induce severe side effects over prolonged usage. Central to recent studies are investigations into organs, tissues, and signaling pathways that could pave the way for innovation in targeted and controlled-release treatment modalities.

This Research Topic aims to delve into the efficacy and mechanisms of immunometabolic drugs and controlled-release agents specifically made for managing immune disorders, chronic tissue degeneration, and injury repair in the bone and joint systems. Notable advancements in immunotherapy, like the employment of denosumab and bisphosphonates, have shown promising results in balancing bone degradation and regeneration. The emergence of biomaterials aiding controlled drug release also holds potential in revolutionizing strategies for managing orthopedic diseases and enhancing tissue and organ repair. Furthermore, groundbreaking findings in monoclonal antibody therapy have signified substantial progress in addressing immune-related damage in these disorders.

To gather further insights in the realms of pharmacotherapy and drug delivery systems for bone and joint disorders, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:

Translational pharmaceutical applications (western medicine and traditional Chinese medicine) in the treatment of osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, gout, osteoporosis, and other bone and joint injuries.

Design and evaluation of controlled release systems tailor-made for immunometabolic drug delivery in orthopedic applications.

Innovative drug formulations that enhance the bioavailability and specificity of treatment in targeting immunometabolic pathways.

Investigations into signaling pathways and promising molecular targets for drug development.

Articles in formats such as Original Research, Review, Mini Review, Brief Research Report, and Perspective are highly encouraged, fostering a comprehensive understanding and advancement in bone and joint therapeutics.