Daijiworld Media Network- Cambridge   

Cambridge, Sep 9: Researchers at the university of Cambridge have developed a novel material that can sense tiny changes within the body, such as during an arthritis flare-up, and release drugs exactly where and when needed. The study is published in the journal of the American chemical society.  

The material, loaded with anti-inflammatory drugs, responds to changes in pH levels in the body. During an arthritis flare-up, joints become inflamed and more acidic. The new squishy material reacts to this change by becoming softer and jelly-like, triggering precise drug release only within a narrow pH range. 

If used as artificial cartilage, the material could provide continuous treatment, improve drug efficacy, relieve pain, and fight inflammation. While clinical trials are still needed, scientists are optimistic about its use not only in arthritis but also in other conditions, including cancer. 

Professor Oren Scherman, who led the research, said, “We’ve been interested in using these materials in joints since their properties can mimic cartilage. Combining that with highly targeted drug delivery is a really exciting prospect.” 

Dr Stephen O’Neill, first author of the study, added, “These materials can ‘sense’ when something is wrong in the body and respond by delivering treatment right where it’s needed. This could reduce repeated doses of drugs while improving patient quality of life.” 

Unlike most drug delivery systems that require external triggers like heat or light, this material is powered by the body’s own chemistry, making it longer-lasting and more effective, automatically responding to flare-ups and reducing harmful side effects. 

Co-author Dr Jade McCune said, “By tuning the chemistry of these gels, we can make them highly sensitive to subtle acidity shifts in inflamed tissue. That means drugs are released when and where they are needed most.”