A new treatment for Lyme arthritis using a specific protein inhibitor
Official title: A novel therapeutic for Lyme arthritis based on a secretory leukocyte protease inhibitor
Funded at L2 Diagnostics, LLC · NIH-11008266 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring a new treatment for Lyme arthritis that might help people who haven't found relief with regular antibiotics, using a special protein that could help fight the bacteria and ease their symptoms.
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 start | July 8, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $299,933 |
| NIH project number | 1R41AI186833-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11008266 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Lyme arthritis or those experiencing symptoms of PTLDS.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not been diagnosed with Lyme disease or those whose symptoms are unrelated to Lyme arthritis may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a novel therapeutic approach for Lyme arthritis, a condition that can arise from Lyme disease caused by the Borrelia burgdorferi bacteria. The study investigates the use of a human secretory leukocyte protease inhibitor (SLPI) that has shown potential in binding to the bacteria and may help alleviate symptoms associated with Lyme arthritis and Post Treatment Lyme Disease Syndrome (PTLDS). The approach aims to provide a more effective treatment option for patients who do not respond to standard antibiotic therapies. By targeting the underlying mechanisms of the disease, this research seeks to improve patient outcomes and quality of life.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new and effective treatment option for patients suffering from Lyme arthritis and PTLDS.
How similar studies have gone: While there has been significant research on Lyme disease treatments, the specific use of SLPI as a therapeutic agent represents a novel approach that has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
-
L2 Diagnostics, LLC
New Haven, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fikrig, Erol — L2 Diagnostics, LLC
- Study coordinator: Fikrig, Erol
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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.