Finding peptides to deliver drugs directly to osteoarthritic joints
Official title: Identification and application of targeting peptides for systemic nanoparticle delivery to osteoarthritic joints
Funded at University of Florida · NIH-10951676 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking for new ways to help people with osteoarthritis by finding special proteins that can deliver treatments directly to the sore joints after being injected into the bloodstream, making it easier and safer to manage their symptoms.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Gainesville, United States) |
| Project start | July 11, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $208,627 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AR084680-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10951676 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research would be individuals suffering from osteoarthritis, particularly those with multiple affected joints.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with osteoarthritis who are not suitable for intravenous treatments or those with contraindications to peptide-based therapies may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to improve the delivery of therapies for osteoarthritis (OA) by identifying specific peptides that can target OA joints after being injected into the bloodstream. The approach involves using an animal model to test how well these peptides can home in on affected joints, which could allow for less invasive and more effective treatment options compared to traditional methods. By developing drug carriers that utilize these peptides, the research seeks to enhance the bioavailability of medications while minimizing side effects. This could lead to better management of OA symptoms and improved patient outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a more effective and less invasive way to deliver treatments for osteoarthritis, potentially improving pain relief and joint function for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using targeted delivery systems for drug therapies, suggesting that this approach could be effective for osteoarthritis as well.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Florida
Gainesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sharma, Blanka — University of Florida
- Study coordinator: Sharma, Blanka
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.