Osteoarthritis (OA) is a prevalent and disabling joint disorder characterized by progressive cartilage degradation, subchondral bone changes, synovial inflammation, and chronic pain. While traditionally attributed to mechanical and age-related factors, increasing attention has been directed toward the role of nutritional components in disease modulation. This article critically examines the emerging role of three essential trace elements, zinc, copper, and selenium, in the pathophysiology of OA. These micronutrients are fundamental to antioxidant defense, immune modulation, and extracellular matrix (ECM) integrity. Altered systemic or local levels of zinc, copper, and selenium have been associated with oxidative stress, inflammation, and dysregulated cartilage metabolism in OA. Drawing on clinical studies, in vivo and in vitro experimental models, and population-based data, we synthesize evidence on trace element status in OA patients, mechanistic pathways, and therapeutic potential, including emerging nanomedicine strategies that enhance the targeted delivery and therapeutic efficacy of trace elements in joint tissues. This review highlights the need for integrated trace element profiling in OA research and clinical care and supports the exploration of targeted nutritional interventions in OA prevention and management.

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a prevalent and disabling joint disorder characterized by progressive cartilage degradation, subchondral bone changes, synovial inflammation, and chronic pain. While traditionally attributed to mechanical and age-related factors, increasing attention has been directed toward the role of nutritional components in disease modulation. This review critically examines the emerging role of three essential trace elements, zinc, copper, and selenium, in the pathophysiology of OA. These micronutrients are fundamental to antioxidant defense, immune modulation, and extracellular matrix (ECM) integrity. Altered systemic or local levels of zinc, copper, and selenium have been associated with oxidative stress, inflammation, and dysregulated cartilage metabolism in OA. Drawing on clinical studies, in vivo, and in vitro experimental models, and population-based data, we synthesize evidence on trace element status in OA patients, mechanistic pathways, and therapeutic potential, including emerging nanomedicine strategies. This review highlights the need for integrated trace element profiling in OA research and clinical care and supports the exploration of targeted nutritional interventions in OA prevention and management.

Arthritis is a prevalent and disabling condition that affects millions of people globally. This study aimed to investigate the associations between blood levels of trace elements (TEs), lifestyle factors, and arthritis. Data from NHANES 2011–2023 were analyzed via a complex survey-weighted design. We assessed the associations between blood concentrations of lead, cadmium, mercury, selenium, and manganese and arthritis status. Logistic regression models were employed, with TEs categorized into quartiles. Dose‒response relationships were evaluated via restricted cubic spline (RCS) modeling. Compared with those without arthritis, individuals with arthritis had significantly higher blood concentrations of lead and cadmium (both P < 0.001) and significantly lower levels of selenium (P = 0.007) and manganese (P < 0.001). After adjusting for confounders, individuals in the highest quartile of blood cadmium had reduced odds of arthritis [OR: 0.80; 95%CI: 0.70–0.90; P < 0.001], although RCS modeling revealed a significant nonlinear dose‒response relationship (P for nonlinearity = 0.001). The highest quartile of selenium was also associated with a reduced risk of arthritis [OR: 0.91; 95%CI: 0.83–0.99; P = 0.048]. Manganese showed a similar inverse association. These findings highlight the potential role of environmental exposure and lifestyle in arthritis development.