A new D-peptide treatment for rheumatoid arthritis

A Potent D-peptide Inhibitor of TNFα for Treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis

NIH-funded research D Biotherapeutics, LLC · NIH-10822182

This study is testing a new treatment called DBT178 that aims to reduce inflammation in people with rheumatoid arthritis, and it could offer a better option for those who haven't had success with current medications.

Quick facts

Grant typeSbir 1 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionD Biotherapeutics, LLC NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Salt Lake City, United States)
Project IDNIH-10822182 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates a novel D-peptide, DBT178, designed to inhibit TNFα, a key driver of inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The approach focuses on creating a stable and protease-resistant peptide that can effectively block TNFα activity, potentially overcoming the limitations of current anti-TNFα biologics that many patients develop resistance to. The study aims to evaluate the pharmacokinetics and efficacy of DBT178 in a validated RA disease model, which could lead to improved treatment options for patients suffering from this chronic condition.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, particularly those who have experienced a loss of efficacy with current anti-TNFα treatments.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have rheumatoid arthritis or those who are not adults may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a more effective and durable treatment option for patients with rheumatoid arthritis who have lost response to existing therapies.

How similar studies have performed: While the use of D-peptides in this context is relatively novel, similar approaches targeting TNFα have shown promise in other studies.

Where this research is happening

Salt Lake City, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.