Developing new materials to control inflammation in autoimmune diseases

Supramolecular biomaterials for tuning the inflammatory properties of the complement system

NIH-funded research Duke University · NIH-11093943

This study is exploring new materials that can help manage inflammation in autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, aiming to create better and less invasive treatment options for patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionDuke University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Durham, United States)
Project IDNIH-11093943 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates innovative supramolecular biomaterials designed to modulate the inflammatory response of the complement system, which plays a crucial role in autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis. By creating self-assembling nanomaterials that target specific complement proteins, the project aims to enhance the body's immune response in a controlled manner, potentially leading to more effective treatments. The approach differs from traditional monoclonal antibodies by aiming to stabilize and selectively neutralize multiple complement components, addressing the limitations of current therapies. Patients may benefit from a more effective and less invasive treatment option for chronic inflammatory conditions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with autoimmune diseases, particularly those experiencing chronic inflammation.

Not a fit: Patients with non-autoimmune inflammatory conditions or those not responding to complement system therapies may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for patients suffering from autoimmune diseases by improving the management of inflammation.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using similar approaches to modulate immune responses, indicating potential for success in this novel application.

Where this research is happening

Durham, United States

Researchers

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 below.
Conditions Autoimmune Diseasesautoimmune disorderautoimmunity disease
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.