Anti-inflammatory drug delivery that activates with motion for knee ligament injuries
Official title: Evaluation of Anti-Inflammatory Delivery from Mechanically-Activated Microspheres in the Context of Cruciate Ligament Injury
Funded at Philadelphia VA Medical Center · NIH-11534634 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A new way to deliver anti-inflammatory medicine directly inside a joint after ACL injuries using tiny, motion-activated beads designed to release medication over time.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Philadelphia VA Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| NIH project number | 5I21RX004628-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11534634 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Patients with ACL injuries or related joint inflammation could potentially benefit once this therapy progresses to clinical testing.
✕Less likely to help
Early-stage preclinical work may not benefit patients until later translational steps.
What this research studies
This project aims to improve inflammation control in joints affected by ACL injury by using PLGA microparticles that rupture under mechanical loading to release anti-inflammatory therapies. The approach builds on prior work showing these particles can provide sustained release in a joint and potentially grow into a practical treatment for both humans and animals. Researchers will explore how these mechanically activated microlspheres perform in models that mimic joint movement and inflammation, with an eye toward eventual human use after injury. Participation would involve assessments relevant to joint health and response to treatment in appropriate animal or translational models.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this technology could provide longer-lasting joint relief from inflammation after ACL injuries without frequent injections.
How similar studies have gone: Earlier studies show that mechanically activated microparticles can release therapeutic agents in loaded joints, with promising but early results.
Where this research is happening
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Philadelphia VA Medical Center
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mauck, Robert L — Philadelphia VA Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Mauck, Robert L
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.