In Vitro–In Vivo Assessments of Apocynin-Hybrid Nanoparticle-Based Gel as an Effective Nanophytomedicine for Treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis

The study investigates the potential of apocynin (APO), a plant-based phenolic compound with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, as a topical treatment for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) using a nanostructured delivery system. Researchers developed and optimized APO-loaded hybrid nanoparticles using Compritol 888 ATO and chitosan, and incorporated them into a gel to enhance therapeutic efficacy. The in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo evaluations demonstrated significant therapeutic activity of the APO-hybrid nanoparticles-based gel against rheumatoid arthritis in rats. The findings suggest that this gel formulation could be a promising approach for treating inflammatory conditions like RA.