Targeted Drug Delivery Using Nanozymes for Improved Rheumatoid Arthritis Outcomes

Nanozymes, enzyme-like nanomaterials, offer a novel therapeutic approach for rheumatoid arthritis (RA), characterized by severe joint inflammation and cartilage destruction. Traditional RA treatments, such as NSAIDs, immunosuppressants, and biologics, often cause significant side effects and do not directly address the underlying causes of the disease. Nanozymes offer unique properties, including high stability, tunable catalytic activity, and biocompatibility, making them promising candidates for RA therapy. Recent advancements show the efficacy of nanozyme-functionalized exosomes, hydrogels, and encapsulated drugs in targeting inflamed joints, reducing oxidative stress, and promoting cartilage regeneration. Specifically, ultra-small Prussian blue nanoparticle exosomes (uPB-Exo) have shown superior anti-inflammatory effects and targeted delivery capabilities, significantly improving joint health in RA models. These innovative nanozyme-based treatments represent a significant step forward in RA management, promising enhanced therapeutic efficacy with reduced side effects. Further research and clinical trials are essential to validate these findings and optimize nanozyme applications in autoimmune disease therapy.