Fibroblast-Targeted Nanodelivery Systems: Mechanisms of Collagen Remodeling Regulation and Novel Strategies for Scar Repair

Scar formation is a common outcome of post-injury repair and can compromise both esthetic appearance and physiological function. Fibroblasts are central mediators of this process; their aberrant activation or differentiation into myofibroblasts drives fibrosis and excessive scar tissue accumulation. Nanodrug delivery systems (NDDSs) offer unique opportunities to modulate fibroblast behavior through cell-/microenvironment-guided targeting, controlled release, and stimuli-adaptive designs. Here, we summarize fibroblast biology across scar repair and delineate the mechanistic underpinnings of scar pathogenesis. We then synthesize recent progress in NDDS-enabled interventions for pathological scarring, with an emphasis on how materials design can be matched to fibroblast states and wound-stage cues. By connecting mechanisms to delivery strategies, this review provides a framework to guide the development of scar-minimizing therapies and functional tissue regeneration.