Dendrimer-delivered therapy to slow age-related muscle loss
Macrophage-targeted dendrimer 2-PMPA for the treatment of age-related sarcopenia
['FUNDING_R01'] · JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY · NIH-11372120
This project uses a targeted drug delivery to protect muscles and nerve connections in older adults with age-related muscle loss.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11372120 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Researchers found an enzyme (GCPII) that rises in immune cells called macrophages inside aging muscle and appears to drive nerve and muscle damage. They attach a potent inhibitor drug (2-PMPA) to tiny nanoparticle carriers called hydroxyl-dendrimers so the drug is taken up and retained by activated immune cells in affected muscle. In animal tests this targeted approach reduced inflammation and helped preserve neuromuscular junctions, muscle size, and function. The team is optimizing the drug–carrier design and testing delivery, safety, and durability to move this toward a treatment for people.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates would be older adults with signs of age-related muscle loss or weakness, especially those aged 65 and older.
Not a fit: People whose muscle wasting is caused by genetic neuromuscular diseases, active cancer, or recent severe injury may not benefit from this targeted anti-inflammatory approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could slow or prevent age-related muscle loss and help preserve strength and mobility.
How similar studies have performed: Similar dendrimer-targeted therapies and GCPII inhibition have shown promising results in animal models, but human trials have not yet been done.
Where this research is happening
BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES
- JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY — BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: SLUSHER, BARBARA STAUCH — JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: SLUSHER, BARBARA STAUCH
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.