Revolutionizing rheumatoid arthritis therapy: the potential of lipid nanocarriers

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disorder characterized by synovitis, systemic inflammation and autoantibodies, leading to joint damage and disability. RA pathogenesis is characterized by a dysregulated interaction between immune cells, particularly B cells and T cells, which release inflammatory cytokines. This review explores the pivotal role of these immune cells in sustaining the inflammatory response and contributing to tissue injury. We provide a comprehensive overview of current RA therapies, highlighting the limitations of conventional treatments and the pressing need for targeted drug delivery systems such as lipid nanocarrier-based therapies, including nano-emulsions, solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs), niosomes, liposomes, transferosomes, and ethosomes. Emphasizing niosomes, we discuss their capacity to encapsulate multiple drugs, significantly enhancing bioavailability and therapeutic efficacy. By directing drug-loaded niosomes to inflamed synovial sites, this innovative approach minimizes systemic side effects while maximizing localized drug concentrations, thereby optimizing treatment outcomes for RA patients. This review underscores the importance of targeted (nano)drug delivery in improving patient's life quality and represents a significant step toward more effective, personalized RA therapies by deepening our understanding of the underlying mechanisms.