Cell membrane-coated nanoparticles-based drug delivery systems for osteoarthritis therapy: the application and potential translation into clinical therapy

INTRODUCTION: Osteoarthritis (OA) is a prevalent degenerative joint disease, affecting millions worldwide and imposing a huge medical burden. Traditional OA treatments focused on symptom relief rather than delaying disease progression. Due to the anatomical structure and physiological characteristics of the joint, systemic and intra-articular drug administration face limitations. Recently, cell membrane-coated nanoparticles have emerged as a promising strategy for OA treatment. By leveraging the intrinsic characteristics of cell membranes, these engineered nanoparticles enhance drug retention, immune evasion, and targeted efficacy. AREAS COVERED: This review summarizes the current research on different cell membrane-coated nanoparticles used in OA treatment, presenting the development of cell membrane-coated nanoparticles drug delivery system to target joint. EXPERT OPINION: Cell membrane-coated nanoparticles, which improve the delivery performance and shortcomings of traditional nanoparticles, provide a novel insight into OA drug delivery strategy. They offer tremendous potential in addressing the challenges associated with traditional drug delivery. However, it is still important to assess their safety, interaction with the system of OA, final metabolism, and optimization before their translation to clinics. While challenges remain, the unique ability of cell membrane-coated nanoparticles to evade immune clearance and target inflamed joint tissues offers real hope for developing more effective and precise OA therapies.