Using methotrexate to treat arthritis caused by chikungunya virus
Official title: Methotrexate treatment of Arthritis caused by Chikungunya virus (MARCH): A randomized controlled trial of methotrexate versus placebo in the treatment of chronic arthritis after chikungunya infection
Funded at George Washington University · NIH-10918064 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how well methotrexate, a medicine often used for arthritis, works for people who have chronic arthritis after getting chikungunya virus, and it will help us understand if this treatment can make a difference in reducing their pain and inflammation.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | George Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Washington, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2022 |
| Project end | August 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $1,546,361 |
| NIH project number | 5U01AR079717-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10918064 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have developed chronic arthritis following chikungunya virus infection.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have a history of chikungunya virus infection or those with other forms of arthritis may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the effectiveness of methotrexate, a medication commonly used for arthritis, in treating chronic arthritis that develops after chikungunya virus infection. The study will involve a randomized controlled trial where participants will receive either methotrexate or a placebo for six months. Researchers will assess the impact of the treatment on arthritis severity and inflammation by analyzing synovial tissue samples. The goal is to provide evidence-based recommendations for treating this condition.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new treatment option for patients suffering from chronic arthritis due to chikungunya virus.
How similar studies have gone: While methotrexate is commonly used for various types of arthritis, this specific application for chikungunya-related arthritis is novel and has not been extensively tested in randomized trials.
Where this research is happening
-
George Washington University
Washington, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chang, Aileen — George Washington University
- Study coordinator: Chang, Aileen
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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.