Improving anti-inflammatory treatment for knee injuries using special microspheres
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-10798447 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring a new way to help dogs with knee injuries, like CCL disease, by using tiny capsules that slowly release medicine when the dog moves, aiming to provide longer-lasting relief from pain and inflammation.
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 | 2024 |
| NIH project number | 1I21RX004628-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10798447 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include patients suffering from acute knee injuries, particularly those related to cranial cruciate ligament damage.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with chronic joint conditions unrelated to acute injuries may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a new method for delivering anti-inflammatory treatments to the knee joint, specifically targeting injuries like cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) disease in dogs. The approach involves using specially designed microspheres that release medication over time when subjected to mechanical stress, which is common in joint movement. By encapsulating biologic therapies within these microspheres, the goal is to provide sustained relief from inflammation and pain associated with joint injuries. This method aims to improve the effectiveness of existing treatments by prolonging their action within the joint.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and longer-lasting treatments for joint inflammation, improving recovery outcomes for patients with knee injuries.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific use of mechanically-activated microspheres is novel, similar approaches in drug delivery systems have shown promise in other contexts.
Where this research is happening
-
Philadelphia VA Medical Center
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mauck, Robert L — Philadelphia VA Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Mauck, Robert L
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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.