Nano-Drug Delivery System Targeting the Oxidative Stress Microenvironment: A Prospective Strategy for Intervertebral Disc Degeneration Treatment

Evidence from laboratory and animal studies provides groundwork for understanding mechanisms and potential before human studies continue.

• Level A · Stronger Clinical Evidence
• Level B · Emerging clinical evidence with positive signals
• Level C · Early human research exploring benefits
• Level D · Scientific groundwork from lab and animal studies
• Emerging · Emerging topic under active research

Abstract (original English)

Intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) is the main cause of low back pain (LBP), which imposes a heavy burden on individuals and society. At present, the treatment methods for IDD aim to control clinical symptoms, and it is difficult to fundamentally reverse IDD and reconstruct its mechanical function. Related studies have shown that oxidative stress is a key factor in promoting intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration and impeding its repair, so antioxidant therapy may be effective in improving or reversing IDD progression. However, considering the non-targeted systemic cytotoxicity and limited bioavailability of antioxidant biopharmaceuticals, it is urgent to establish an efficient drug delivery system. With the development and innovation of nanomedicine and materials science, nano-drug delivery systems (NDDSs) have shown broad application prospects in various diseases. Relying on the characteristics of nanoscale materials, NDDSs can achieve good biodegradability, biocompatibility, targeted drug delivery, and controlled drug release, thereby enhancing the efficacy of antioxidant preparations. This review not only summarizes the research progress of NDDSs in the treatment of IDD, but also evaluates the advantages and challenges faced by various NDDSs. We anticipate that the perspectives articulated in this review will offer valuable insights for the precise management of IDD.

Evidence level

Evidence from laboratory and animal studies provides groundwork for understanding mechanisms and potential before human studies continue.

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