Mechano-Piezoelectric F-Peptide Hydrogels Enable In Situ Stem Cell and Immune Niche Modulation for Cartilage Regeneration

Abstract

Osteoarthritis, characterized by cartilage degradation and synovial inflammation, has spurred interest in mechano-piezoelectric bio-hydrogel therapies that can both relieve symptoms and reverse progression. However, current approaches lack sufficient piezoelectric output and dual cartilage/inflammation targeting. To address this, we demonstrated a mechano-piezoelectric peptide hydrogel composed of nanofibers integrating piezoelectric cues with mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) recruitment and PIEZO2 mechanosignaling. Molecularly, the hydrogel’s seed peptide incorporated four functions: COL2A1 targeting, MMP-13 responsiveness, MSCs homing, and self-assembly. Overexpressed MMP-13 in the osteoarthritis niche triggers gelation, promoting MSCs recruitment and drug retention. Fluorination modulates hierarchical nanofiber assembly, enhancing mechanical and piezoelectric properties, as confirmed by morphological, biophysical, and computational analysis. The trifluoromethyl-modified, 4-octyl itaconate (4–OI) loaded formulation reverses osteoarthritis via PI3K/AKT activation and Wnt/β–catenin suppression, as shown by improved Osteoarthritis Research Society International (OARSI) scores, bone microarchitecture, and cartilage matrix. This synergy of mechano–piezoelectric cues and 4–OI offers a clinically promising strategy for osteoarthritis.