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Getting the latest healthcare news for you
Getting the latest healthcare news for you
Scientists at the University at Buffalo have developed an injectable hydrogel that transforms from liquid to a lubricating semisolid inside the joint, slowly releasing medication over several weeks. The platform could reduce the frequency of painful joint injections while targeting the underlying disease — not just the symptoms. It's a promising development for the millions living with osteoarthritis.
Researchers at the University at Buffalo have engineered an injectable hydrogel that could transform how osteoarthritis (OA) is treated. Delivered as a liquid via a minimally invasive injection, the formulation converts into a smooth, lubricating semisolid depot at body temperature — acting as a long-lasting drug reservoir inside the joint for several weeks.
The platform pairs a biocompatible polymer matrix with drug-loaded nanocarriers capable of carrying high concentrations of poorly soluble (hydrophobic) compounds — a class of drugs that's historically difficult to deliver effectively. Medication is released gradually through diffusion, providing sustained local exposure while minimizing systemic side effects. Researchers validated the approach using a SIRT6 activator, and the system can be adapted for other disease-modifying compounds.
Key Takeaways:
Why it matters: Current intra-articular treatments wear off quickly and rarely slow disease progression. This platform could meaningfully reduce injection frequency, improve patient adherence, and open the door to delivering disease-modifying therapies directly where they're needed most.
