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This study investigated the chondrogenic activity of encapsulated mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and articular chondrocytes (ACs) and its impact on the mechanical properties of injectable poly(N-isopropylacrylamide)-based dual-network hydrogels loaded with poly(L-lysine) (PLL). To this effect, an ex vivo study model was employed to assess the behavior of the injected hydrogels - specifically, their surface stiffness and integration strength with the surrounding cartilage. The highest chondrogenic activity was observed from AC-encapsulated hydrogels, while the effect of PLL on MSC chondrogenesis was not apparent from biochemical analyses. Mechanical testing showed that there were no significant differences in either surface stiffness or integration strength among the different study groups. Altogether, the results suggest that the ex vivo model can allow further understanding of the relationship between biochemical changes within the hydrogel and their impact on the hydrogel's mechanical properties. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.