By Stephen Beech

Arthritis treatment could be revolutionized by a new "artificial cartilage" breakthrough.

Cambridge University scientists have developed a material that can sense tiny changes within the body - such as during an arthritis flare-up - and release drugs exactly where and when they are needed.

The "squishy" material can be loaded with anti-inflammatory drugs that are released in response to small changes in acidity (pH) levels in the body.

During an arthritis flare-up, a joint becomes inflamed and slightly more acidic than the surrounding tissue.

The material is designed to respond to that natural change in pH.

As acidity increases, the material becomes softer and more jelly-like, triggering the release of drug molecules that can be encapsulated within its structure.

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