In a breakthrough that could change how arthritis is treated, researchers at the University of Cambridge have created a novel drug-delivery material that responds to changes in the body’s chemistry—releasing medication only during flare-ups.
The new “smart” gel-like substance, developed in Professor Oren Scherman’s group at the Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, is infused with anti-inflammatory drugs. It reacts to tiny shifts in pH levels that occur when joints become inflamed. During an arthritis flare-up, affected tissue becomes more acidic. The material senses this and softens into a jelly-like state, triggering a targeted release of drugs.
Why it matters
Arthritis affects millions worldwide, with osteoarthritis alone impacting an estimated 528 million people. Current treatments often involve repeated systemic doses of medication, which can cause side effects and don’t always deliver relief where it’s most needed.
By contrast, this new material promises precise, long-lasting, and localized therapy, potentially reducing harmful side effects while improving quality of life.
“These materials can ‘sense’ when something is wrong in the body and respond by delivering treatment right where it’s needed,” said Prof. Scherman.
Dr Stephen O’Neill, first author of the study, added: “This could reduce the need for repeated doses of drugs, while improving patient quality of life.”
Beyond arthritis
Though still in early stages, the researchers believe the material could also be used as artificial cartilage, offering continuous treatment in damaged joints. Its unique chemistry—powered by the body’s natural signals, rather than external triggers like heat or light—could also be applied to other conditions, including cancer therapy.
Co-author Dr Jade McCune emphasized the fine-tuning of the gels:
“By tuning the chemistry of these gels, we can make them highly sensitive to the subtle shifts in acidity that occur in inflamed tissue. That means drugs are released when and where they are needed most.”
The road ahead
The findings, published in the Journal of the American Chemical Society, mark a major step toward smarter, patient-responsive therapies. Clinical trials will be essential before the material can be used in patients, but scientists are optimistic that it could revolutionize the treatment of arthritis and beyond.
