Scientists at the University of Cambridge have developed an innovative gel that can intelligently release anti-inflammatory drugs in response to chemical changes in the body, reducing the pain and inflammation caused by arthritis.
This gel, which was developed in a chemistry laboratory at the University of Cambridge, is capable of loading anti-inflammatory drugs and is activated by changes in the body’s pH.
As acidity in the joint increases due to inflammation, the gel structure becomes softer and jelly-like, releasing the medication.
This feature allows the drug to be activated only in the inflammatory environment and reduces side effects.
Initial tests on mice showed that the gel could reduce inflammation by up to 60 percent and improve the effectiveness of drugs by up to 30 percent.
This gel, made from biocompatible materials, could replace repeated injections or invasive surgeries if confirmed in human clinical trials, allowing patients with osteoarthritis to better manage pain and improve quality of life.
