Understanding how Lyme disease affects joint inflammation
Official title: Synovium Immunoprivilege and the Modulation of Resident Synovial Macrophage Functions in Lyme Arthritis
Funded at University of Iowa · NIH-11134278 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how Lyme Arthritis can become more serious and harder to treat, and it's for people with Lyme disease who want to understand how their immune system changes in the joints, so we can find better ways to help them feel better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Iowa NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Iowa City, United States) |
| Project start | May 15, 2025 |
| Project end | May 16, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $167,076 |
| NIH project number | 1K08AR084605-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11134278 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Lyme disease who are experiencing symptoms of arthritis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not been diagnosed with Lyme disease or those who do not exhibit arthritic symptoms may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the transition of Lyme Arthritis to a more severe condition known as Antibiotic-Refractory Lyme Arthritis. It aims to understand how the immune response in the joint space changes from a protective state to an inflammatory one, potentially leading to long-term disability. The study will utilize advanced imaging techniques to analyze the behavior of specific immune cells in the joints during infection. By identifying these changes, the research seeks to improve treatment strategies for patients suffering from Lyme disease-related arthritis.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better treatment options for patients with Lyme Arthritis, potentially reducing long-term disability.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding immune responses in other forms of arthritis, suggesting potential for success in this area as well.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Iowa
Iowa City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cyndari, Karen I — University of Iowa
- Study coordinator: Cyndari, Karen I
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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.