Transdermal delivery of Astragalus tomentosus hyaluoleosomes assisted by hollow microneedles for managing rheumatoid arthritis: in-vitro evaluation and biological studies

Aim To develop and evaluate Astragalus tomentosus (AST)-loaded hyaluoleosomes delivered via hollow microneedles as a novel approach for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) management.Methods AST-loaded hyaluoleosomes were prepared and characterized for particle size, polydispersity index, zeta potential, and in vitro drug release. The optimized formulation was intradermally administered using hollow microneedles in antigen-induced arthritis rats. Therapeutic efficacy was assessed by measuring inflammatory markers (TNF-α, IL-1, MMP-9), antioxidant markers (HO-1, NRF2, SOD), and histopathological changes.Results The optimized formulation showed nanosized particles (∼217 nm), low PDI, and stable zeta potential, with sustained drug release over 96 h. In vivo, it significantly reduced joint swelling, suppressed inflammatory mediators, restored antioxidant markers, and improved histopathological features with reduced synovial inflammation and cartilage damage.Conclusion AST-loaded hyaluoleosomes delivered via microneedles offer a minimally invasive and effective RA treatment, demonstrating synergistic therapeutic effects.