Highlights

• This study introduces a neutrophil membrane-cloaked nanoliposomal system loaded with leonurine (Leo) and catalase (CAT), known as Leo@CAT@NM-Lipo, to target and treat refractory rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
• The constructed Leo@CAT@NM-Lipo nanovesicles act as nano decoys to neutralize pro-arthritogenic cytokines and chemokines (reducing inflammation) and utilize catalase to transform high-level reactive oxygen species (ROS) into oxygen.
• The Leo@CAT@NM-Lipo system effectively alleviated symptoms of RA in adjuvant-induced arthritis rats, including reducing paw swelling and arthritis score.

Summary

The research paper presents a treatment for rheumatoid arthritis (RA), a significant global health issue that causes chronic inflammation. The novel approach involves a nano platform named Leo@CAT@NM-Lipo, which combines a neutrophil membrane with co-loaded leonurine (Leo), an anti-arthritic agent, and catalase (CAT) within nanoliposomes. This design targets inflamed joints directly, leveraging the neutrophil membrane’s natural homing capabilities to deliver the therapeutic agents efficiently to the site of inflammation.

Leo@CAT@NM-Lipo effectively reduces inflammation and mitigates joint and organ damage in RA models by converting reactive oxygen species (ROS) into oxygen. Thus, the process relieves hypoxia and accelerates Leo’s release. This targeted intervention can reduce the disease’s symptoms. Besides that, it also addresses underlying pathogenic mechanisms such as macrophage polarization and ROS scavenging, demonstrating significant potential for comprehensive RA management.

Furthermore, this study has confirmed the safety and biocompatibility of Leo@CAT@NM-Lipo, suggesting a promising future for its clinical application in treating RA and possibly other inflammatory conditions. This research marks a significant step forward in RA therapy, offering a more effective and targeted treatment approach.

Z. Tang et al., “Neutrophil‐Mimetic, ROS Responsive, and Oxygen Generating Nanovesicles for Targeted Interventions of Refractory Rheumatoid Arthritis,” Small, p. 2307379, Dec. 2023, doi: .