2D MXene Nanosheets with ROS Scavenging Ability Effectively Delay Osteoarthritis Progression

Abstract

MXenes nanosheets with high conductivity, hydrophilicity, and excellent reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging ability have shown promise in treating various degenerative diseases correlated with abnormal ROS accumulation. Herein, the therapeutic potential of Ti3C2Tx nanosheets, which is the most widely investigated MXene material, in delaying osteoarthritis (OA) progression is demonstrated. In vitro experiments indicate the strong ROS scavenging capacity of Ti3C2Tx nanosheets and their acceptable biocompatibility. Ti3C2Tx nanosheets effectively protect chondrocytes from cell death induced by oxidative stress. In addition, Ti3C2Tx nanosheets demonstrate a prominent anti-inflammatory effect and the ability to restore homeostasis between anabolic activities and catabolic activities in chondrocytes. Furthermore, RNA sequencing reveals the potential mechanism underlying the Ti3C2Tx nanosheet-mediated therapeutic effect. Finally, the in vivo curative effect of Ti3C2Tx nanosheets is verified using a rat OA model. Histological staining and immunohistochemical analyses indicate that Ti3C2Tx nanosheets effectively ameliorate OA progression. Conclusively, the in vitro and in vivo experiments suggest that Ti3C2Tx nanosheets could be a promising and effective option for OA treatment.