Cationic nanoparticles (NPs) are emerging as promising carriers for intra-articular drug delivery, particularly for osteoarthritis (OA) where treatment options are limited. However, the clinical translation is challenged by an incomplete understanding of NP interactions within pathological environments. While the influence of the protein coronas on NP behavior has been extensively studied, the specific role of glycoproteins in the extracellular matrix (ECM) remains underexplored, representing a significant knowledge gap.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFPolymer-based nanoparticles (NPs) that react to altered physiological characteristics have the potential to enhance the delivery of therapeutics to a specific area. These materials can utilize biochemical triggers, such as low pH, which is prone to happen locally in an inflammatory microenvironment due to increased cellular activity. This reduced pH is neutralized when inflammation subsides.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFThe ability to customize medical choices according to an individual's genetic makeup and biomarker patterns marks a significant advancement toward overall improved healthcare for both individuals and society at large. By transitioning from the conventional one-size-fits-all approach to tailored treatments that can account for predispositions of different patient populations, nanomedicines can be customized to target the specific molecular underpinnings of a patient's disease, thus mitigating the risk of collateral damage. However, for these systems to reach their full potential, our understanding of how nano-based therapeutics behave within the intricate human body is necessary.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFAmong patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA), postmenopausal women are over-represented. The purpose of this study was to determine whether deficiency of female sex steroids affects OA progression and to evaluate the protective effect of treatment with a physiological dose of 17β-estradiol (E2) on OA progression using a murine model. Ovariectomy (OVX) of female mice was used to mimic a postmenopausal state.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFDefects of articular joints are becoming an increasing societal burden due to a persistent increase in obesity and aging. For some patients suffering from cartilage erosion, joint replacement is the final option to regain proper motion and limit pain. Extensive research has been undertaken to identify novel strategies enabling earlier intervention to promote regeneration and cartilage healing.
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