NIH-funded research Sbir 2 grant

Developing a new treatment for psoriatic arthritis

Official title: Targeting the CCR6-CCL20 pathway for treatment of psoriatic joint and entheseal inflammation

Funded at Xlock Biosciences, LLC · NIH-10902026 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at a new treatment for psoriatic arthritis that targets certain proteins involved in inflammation, with the hope of reducing joint and skin symptoms for people living with this condition.

Quick facts

Grant typeSbir 2 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionXlock Biosciences, LLC
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Muskego, United States)
Project startSeptember 1, 2023
Project endAugust 31, 2025
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$966,201
NIH project number5R44AR081754-02
Project IDNIH-10902026 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with psoriatic arthritis who experience joint and skin inflammation.

Less likely to help

Patients with psoriatic arthritis who do not respond to chemokine-targeted therapies may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research focuses on creating and testing a new therapeutic compound aimed at treating psoriatic arthritis (PsA). It investigates the role of specific chemokines, particularly CCL20 and its receptor CCR6, in driving inflammation associated with PsA. By using engineered proteins that mimic natural molecules, the research aims to reverse the inflammatory processes that lead to joint and skin symptoms. The approach has shown promise in preclinical models, indicating potential effectiveness and safety for patients.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a novel and effective treatment option for patients suffering from psoriatic arthritis.

How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown success with similar approaches targeting chemokines in inflammatory diseases, suggesting a promising avenue for treatment.

Where this research is happening

  • Xlock Biosciences, LLC
    Muskego, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Clarke, William R — Xlock Biosciences, LLC
  • Study coordinator: Clarke, William R

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.