Therapeutic applications of cell membrane-coated nanoparticles in oral diseases: Opportunities, challenges, and future perspectives

Nanotechnology holds great promise for disease therapy; however, the therapeutic efficacy of nanoparticles (NPs) is often limited by rapid recognition and clearance by the immune system. Recent studies have demonstrated that coating NPs with natural cell membranes imparts physicochemical properties closely resembling those of the source cells. This biomimetic coating also transfers key biological components, such as surface proteins and antigens, onto the NPs, endowing them with unique functionalities, including immune evasion, targeted delivery, and modulation of the immune microenvironment. These attributes underscore the significant potential of cell membrane-coated nanoparticles (CNPs) for a wide range of biomedical applications, including those in oral healthcare. Oral diseases are among the most prevalent non-communicable conditions globally, significantly affecting the quality of daily life and posing major public health challenges. As an emerging class of biological carriers, CNPs have been effectively utilized in the diagnosis and treatment of various oral diseases, including head and neck tumors and periodontitis. Owing to their high biocompatibility, targeted delivery capabilities, and extended circulation time, CNPs exhibit excellent therapeutic potential and offer a novel approach that complements conventional oral treatments. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the definition, classification, and fabrication methodologies of CNPs. It highlights recent advances in their diverse applications, with a particular focus on oral healthcare, critically examines current challenges, and concludes with perspectives to inform and guide future research.