A new treatment for Lyme arthritis
A novel therapeutic for Lyme arthritis based on a secretory leukocyte protease inhibitor
This research is exploring a new type of medicine to help people who continue to experience joint pain and other symptoms after being treated for Lyme disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | L2 Diagnostics, LLC NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11134674 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Lyme disease, caused by tick bites, can sometimes lead to long-lasting joint pain and swelling, known as Lyme arthritis, even after antibiotic treatment. For some, symptoms like fatigue and muscle aches can persist for months or years, a condition called Post-Treatment Lyme Disease Syndrome (PTLDS). Current long-term antibiotics haven't been effective for these persistent issues. This project is developing a new therapeutic agent, based on a natural human protein, that aims to specifically target the bacteria causing Lyme disease and reduce inflammation. We hope this new approach can offer relief for those struggling with ongoing Lyme symptoms.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates would be individuals experiencing ongoing joint pain, swelling, or other chronic symptoms related to Lyme disease, even after receiving standard antibiotic therapy.
Not a fit: Patients whose Lyme disease symptoms fully resolve with initial antibiotic treatment may not need or benefit from this specific therapeutic.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this new treatment could provide relief for persistent Lyme arthritis and other long-term symptoms that don't respond to current antibiotics.
How similar studies have performed: This approach, using a specific human protein to target the Lyme bacteria, appears to be a novel strategy for persistent Lyme symptoms.
Where this research is happening
New Haven, United States
- L2 Diagnostics, LLC — New Haven, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fikrig, Erol — L2 Diagnostics, LLC
- Study coordinator: Fikrig, Erol
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.