Core-shell engineered Col/Cs@ECM microspheres for macrophage-targeted intracellular drug release in RA therapy.

ABSTRACT: The imbalance of macrophage polarization between M1 and M2 phenotypes in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) results in a persistent inflammatory cascade. Activating M2 anti-inflammatory polarization, which remove excess extracellular matrix (ECM) via phagocytosis, represents a potential therapeutic target for RA. This study introduces Col/Cs@ECM microspheres, a novel drug delivery system designed for macrophage recognition via a tailored ECM surface, enhancing phagocytic efficiency and accumulation. Moreover, the Col/Cs@ECM microspheres are composed of biocompatible and fully degradable materials, ensuring their safety profile within the physiological environment. Following cell phagocytosis, the collagen/chitosan (Col/Cs) core release the drug (Dexamethasone, Dex) intracellularly to inhibit M1 pol

SUBMITTER: Duan X 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12454285 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature