Microfluidic Microspheres Loaded with Aggregation-Induced Emission Nanomicelles for Theranostic Applications in Osteoarthritis.

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common degenerative joint disease, and early diagnosis and effective treatment are essential for managing its progression. This study focuses on the development of a novel drug delivery system using aggregation-induced emission (AIE) probe for enhanced fluorescence imaging and targeted therapy in OA. TPE-S-BTD, an AIE probe, is synthesized and characterized for its photophysical properties, demonstrating significant aggregation-induced fluorescence enhancement. FPTD (FA-PEG-DSPE@TPE-S-BTD@DS) nanomicelles, which encapsulate TPE-S-BTD and diclofenac sodium (DS), are designed to target M1 macrophages via folate (FA) receptor-mediated endocytosis. These nanomicelles are incorporated into methacrylanhydride-modified hyaluronic acid (HAMA) hydrogel microspheres using microfluidic technology, creating a sustained drug release system (HAMA@FPTD). In vitro and in vivo experiments demonstrated the ability of this system to target M1 macrophages, reduce inflammation, and enhance cartilage repair in an OA rat model. This approach shows promise for the treatment and imaging of OA through a minimally invasive strategy, utilizing both FA-mediated targeting and controlled drug release.