Nanotechnology-Driven Delivery of Natural Anti Inflammatory Compounds for Obesity Management
Obesity is increasingly recognized as a chronic inflammatory condition that underlies insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Persistent low-grade inflammation, particularly within white adipose tissue, is driven by adipocyte dysfunction, immune cell infiltration, oxidative stress, and dysregulated adipokine signaling. Natural anti-inflammatory compounds derived from dietary and medicinal plants, such as polyphenols, flavonoids, terpenoids, and alkaloids, have demonstrated significant potential in attenuating obesity-associated inflammation and improving metabolic outcomes. However, their clinical translation is limited by poor solubility, low bioavailability, rapid metabolism, and a lack of tissue specificity. Nanotechnology-driven drug delivery systems offer innovative solutions to overcome these limitations by enhancing stability, bioavailability, and targeted delivery of natural bioactives. Nanocarriers such as polymeric nanoparticles, lipid-based systems, nanoemulsions, and nanomicelles enable controlled and sitespecific release of natural compounds, maximizing therapeutic efficacy while minimizing systemic side effects. This review comprehensively examines the pathophysiological basis of inflammation in obesity, the antiinflammatory mechanisms of natural compounds, and the role of nanotechnology in optimizing their delivery. Current advances, therapeutic applications, translational challenges, and future perspectives are discussed, highlighting nanotechnology-enabled natural therapeutics as a promising strategy for sustainable and personalized obesity management.