Multifunctional microcarriers to modulate immune responses in OA
Official title: Multifunctional Microcarriers for Immune Modulation in Osteoarthritis
Funded at Syracuse University · NIH-11344508 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A new approach aims to use smart particles that release immune-modifying drugs directly in joints to help people with osteoarthritis.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Syracuse University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Syracuse, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2026 |
| Project end | June 30, 2031 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $467,076 |
| NIH project number | 1R01AR087478-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11344508 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Adults with osteoarthritis, including those with post-traumatic OA, who have chronic joint pain and inflammation.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without OA or those not experiencing joint inflammation may not benefit from this approach.
What this research studies
This project focuses on people with osteoarthritis, including post-traumatic OA, and explores how tiny calcium-zoledronate microparticles can deliver treatment directly to the joint to balance immune cells called macrophages. By targeting macrophage activity rather than removing them, the study hopes to reduce joint inflammation and pain while protecting cartilage. The researchers will test how well the particles reach the joint, how they modulate immune signals, and whether they influence disease-related outcomes in a preclinical setting. Results could point toward a disease-modifying approach that complements current therapies. The work is designed to translate findings toward future human studies in OA patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could lead to a new, targeted treatment that reduces pain and slows joint damage in OA.
How similar studies have gone: Previous work shows that modulating immune cells can influence inflammation and tissue health, but targeted, sustained delivery in OA is an emerging strategy.
Where this research is happening
-
Syracuse University
Syracuse, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Jain, Era — Syracuse University
- Study coordinator: Jain, Era
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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.