Ibuprofen-Loaded Core-Shell Nanoparticles for Osteoarthritis: A Review

Core-shell nanoparticles present a revolutionary approach in local nanomedicine, featuring highly adjustable physicochemical structures. The advanced bimodal nanoparticles contain a specifically designed hydrophobic core for the encapsulation and molecular stabilization of the therapeutics, which is then covered by a customized biodegradable polymer shell responsible for the precise and controlled release kinetics. This review paper explores the synthesis methods, advanced characterization techniques, and stimuli-responsive mechanisms of coreshell nanoparticles, highlighting the unique ability of these nanoparticles to penetrate extracellular matrix selectively. We further explore the application of these advanced nanoparticles in the treatment of osteoarthritis, which is a degenerative chronic disease affecting the whole joint. Traditionally, osteoarthritis has been treated using oral ibuprofen, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug that is limited by its extremely short plasma half-life and toxicity to gastrointestinal and renal system. Using ibuprofen-loaded core-shell nanoparticles to deliver the drug directly into the synovial cavity would maintain the optimal concentration of the drug and eliminate its side-effects.