Understanding how certain cells contribute to rheumatoid arthritis
Official title: Activation of Synovial Lining Fibroblasts in Rheumatoid Arthritis
Funded at Hospital for Special Surgery · NIH-11051254 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain cells in your joints, called synovial fibroblasts, get activated and contribute to rheumatoid arthritis, with the goal of finding new ways to help improve treatment for people living with this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Hospital for Special Surgery NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | April 1, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $175,960 |
| NIH project number | 5K08AR082929-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11051254 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis who are experiencing active disease symptoms.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other types of arthritis or those in remission from rheumatoid arthritis may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of synovial fibroblasts in rheumatoid arthritis, focusing on how these cells become activated and contribute to the disease's progression. The principal investigator, Dr. Melanie H. Smith, will utilize advanced techniques to analyze the behavior of these cells in the synovium, the tissue lining the joints. By understanding the mechanisms behind their activation, the research aims to uncover potential therapeutic targets for improving treatment outcomes for patients with rheumatoid arthritis.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that better manage or even halt the progression of rheumatoid arthritis.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting synovial fibroblasts for therapeutic interventions in rheumatoid arthritis, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Hospital for Special Surgery
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Smith, Melanie Hennebry — Hospital for Special Surgery
- Study coordinator: Smith, Melanie Hennebry
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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.