Improving delivery of osteoarthritis treatments using collagen-based methods

Collagen-mediated approaches to improve the local delivery and hypothermic release of osteoarthritis therapeutics

NIH-funded research University of Delaware · NIH-10916178

This study is exploring a new way to deliver treatments for post-traumatic osteoarthritis in the knee by using tiny collagen-based carriers that release medicine right where it's needed, helping to prevent joint pain and stiffness after an injury.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Delaware NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Newark, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-10916178 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a new way to deliver treatments for post-traumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA) that can occur after knee injuries. It aims to create a system that uses collagen-based nanovesicles to release medications directly into the injured joint, helping to prevent the onset of PTOA. By utilizing temperature-sensitive materials, the treatment can provide a sustained release of drugs at body temperature and a quicker release when cooled slightly. This innovative approach seeks to enhance the effectiveness of existing therapies and reduce the need for frequent high-dose drug administration.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have recently suffered knee injuries, such as ACL tears or ruptures.

Not a fit: Patients with chronic osteoarthritis unrelated to recent joint injuries may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve the management and prevention of post-traumatic osteoarthritis in patients with knee injuries.

How similar studies have performed: While this approach is innovative, similar strategies in drug delivery have shown promise in other contexts, suggesting potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Newark, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.