Functionalization of Novel Theranostic Hydrogels with Kartogenin-Grafted USPIO Nanoparticles To Enhance Cartilage Regeneration

Here, kartogenin (KGN), an emerging stable nonprotein compound with the ability to promote differentiation of bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) into chondrocytes, was grafted onto the surface of modified ultrasmall superparamagnetic iron-oxide (USPIO) and then integrated into cellulose nanocrystal/dextran hydrogels. The hydrogels served as a carrier for the USPIO-KGN and a matrix for cartilage repair. We carried out in vitro and...