Recent advances of self-assembled nanoparticles in the diagnosis and treatment of atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis remains a significant global health challenge, with its related conditions as the leading cause of death, underscoring the urgent need for enhanced diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. Recently, self-assembled nanoparticles (SANPs) have shown remarkable promise in treating atherosclerosis, attributed to their superior bioavailability, biodegradability, biocompatibility, and ease of functional modification. Numerous SANP variants, such as DNA origami, metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), nanozymes, peptide-based nanoparticles, and self-assembled prodrug nanoparticles, have been engineered, extending their utility in targeted drug delivery and imaging. Advances in fabrication technologies, including microfluidic techniques, allow for precise and scalable SANP production, while innovative nanoparticle designs-such as stimuli-responsive and carrier-free variants-enhance pharmacokinetic properties. The deployment of SANPs in atherosclerosis has introduced a range of diagnostic and therapeutic solutions, from non-invasive imaging and stimuli-responsive drug delivery to vaccination, theranostics, and biosensing. This review consolidates the recent progress in SANP applications for atherosclerosis, emphasizing their transformative potential in disease management.