Cholesterol-modified hyaluronic acid nanohydrogels for targeted delivery of anti-inflammatory agents

Chiara Di Meo – associate professor, University Sapienza di Roma; Catherine Cailleau – engineer, University of Paris Saclay; Séverine Domenichini – Head of MIPSIT Platform, University of Paris Saclay; pietro Matricardi – full Professor, Università Roma Tor Vergata; Elias Fattal – full professor, University of Paris Saclay

Introduction: Rheumatoid arthritis is a disorder, characterized by chronic inflammation, in which immune cells accumulate within the synovial tissue, determining the gradual deterioration of the cartilage (1). Pharmacological treatments aim to suppress inflammatory activity and prevent organ damage. The main therapeutic agents include corticosteroids, which induce an initial remission of symptoms, and conventional immunosuppressive drugs (DMARDs). For all classes, a major limitation to their long-term use is the occurrence of adverse side effects. A possible approach to overcome it is the use of alternative drug delivery systems, such as those inspired by nanomedicine.