Research Progress of Drynariae Rhizoma and Dipsaci Radix in the Treatment of Osteoarthritis Based on Subchondral Bone

Abstract

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic joint disorder characterized by degenerative changes in articular cartilage and abnormal subchondral bone remodeling, with its pathogenesis involving lesions throughout the joint tissue. In recent years, the role of subchondral bone in the development of OA has garnered increasing attention, particularly the abnormal bone remodeling mediated by osteoclasts, which is considered a critical factor in disease progression. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) holds unique advantages in the treatment of OA, with Drynariae Rhizoma and Dipsaci Radix, as classic herbs for tonifying the kidneys and strengthening bones, being widely applied in clinical practice. This article systematically reviews the pathological changes of subchondral bone in OA, elucidates the differentiation of osteoclasts and its regulatory network, and analyzes the theoretical basis of the therapeutic effects of Drynariae Rhizoma and Dipsaci Radix from the perspective of TCM theory. Building on this, the modern research evidence on how Drynariae Rhizoma and Dipsaci Radix regulate the subchondral bone microenvironment, inhibit osteoclast differentiation, and modulate related signaling pathways is summarized. Studies indicate that Drynariae Rhizoma and Dipsaci Radix improve subchondral bone structure and delay cartilage degeneration through multi-target and multi-pathway mechanisms, providing a scientific basis for the treatment of OA with TCM.