New treatment for knee osteoarthritis using an enzyme to reduce inflammation

Treatment of Knee Osteoarthritis via Intra-articular Delivery of an Immunosuppressive Enzyme

NIH-funded research University of Florida · NIH-11078781

This study is testing a new way to help people with knee osteoarthritis by using an enzyme that can reduce inflammation and pain right in the joint, potentially giving you longer-lasting relief when other treatments haven't worked.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Florida NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Gainesville, United States)
Project IDNIH-11078781 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on treating knee osteoarthritis by delivering an immunosuppressive enzyme directly into the joint. The enzyme, indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO), is designed to convert tryptophan into anti-inflammatory metabolites, which may help reduce inflammation and pain in the affected joint. By anchoring the enzyme in the joint, it can continuously produce these beneficial metabolites, potentially leading to long-lasting relief from symptoms. This innovative approach aims to improve the management of knee osteoarthritis where current treatments have not been effective.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with knee osteoarthritis who experience chronic joint pain and inflammation.

Not a fit: Patients with knee osteoarthritis who do not respond to immunosuppressive therapies or have contraindications to enzyme treatments may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new, effective treatment option for patients suffering from knee osteoarthritis, potentially reducing pain and improving joint function.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach of using enzyme therapy for osteoarthritis is innovative, similar strategies targeting inflammation in other conditions have shown promise, suggesting potential for success in this area.

Where this research is happening

Gainesville, 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.