The present invention relates to a composition comprising, or consisting of 2-50 mg/ml hyaluronic acid, 0.1-500 mg/ml of biodegradable particles with an average mean particle diameter of 1 nm-500 μm, 1 pg/ml-10 μg/ml cytokines, where the concentrations specified are based in each case on the total volume (w/v) of the composition and where the cytokines are enclosed in the biodegradable particles, and to their use in the treatment of cartilage defects, for example traumatic cartilage defects or osteoarthrosis.