Research Progress on Advanced Polymer Hydrogels in Articular Cartilage Repair

ABSTRACT Articular cartilage is a highly structured connective tissue that covers joint surfaces and acts as a “bearing” between adjacent bones to reduce friction and impact during daily physiological activities. However, due to the absence of nerves and blood vessels, articular cartilage has limited self‐regenerative capacity following injury. Although various treatment methods are available in clinical medicine, none can fully replace or regenerate damaged cartilage. Hydrogels, as high‐water‐content polymeric 3D networks with structures highly similar to articular cartilage, are currently the most promising materials for treating cartilage defects. This paper comprehensively reviews recent research progress in applying hydrogels for articular cartilage repair. It first discusses the limitations of traditional treatment methods and introduces the characteristics and advantages of hydrogels. Next, it provides an overview of hydrogel materials commonly used for cartilage repair and further explores the selection of hydrogel materials for joint cartilage repair, including both natural and synthetic polymers. Finally, it conducts an in‐depth analysis of the principles and methods for hydrogel preparation and provides a comprehensive summary of the application of hydrogels in cartilage repair, as well as the challenges they face, thereby pointing the way forward for clinical translation research on hydrogels.