Nanoparticle syringe for osteoarthritis | Nachrichten.at

A syringe of nanoparticles directly into the affected joints hope in people with osteoarthritis. Therapy not only stabilizes osteoarthritis, but can restore joint function, according to studies from the University of Geneva

Researchers turned to drugs that had previously undergone clinical trials, but failed because of side effects. Patients had to take the drugs orally in these studies. According to a statement from the University of Geneva, only a small number of active substances actually acts on the affected joint

Specifically, Genevan scientists have devoted themselves to cartogenin, a molecule capable of regenerating cartilage . Cartogenin is trapped as a nanocrystal in microparticles. These microparticles, made of biodegradable polymer, can be injected directly into the joint

. They stay there for several months and gradually release the cartogenin. This in turn reconstructs the cartilaginous tissue. Nanocrystals can deliver the drug over a longer period without causing inflammation.

"The goal is not only to stabilize the articulation, but to make it fully functional," said Pierre Maudens, the first author of several articles. who appeared in prestigious journals. This has already been done in experiments with mice.

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