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-11190081 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how well methotrexate works for people with chronic arthritis that can happen after chikungunya virus infection, and it will help find better treatment options for this condition.
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) | $148,419 |
| NIH project number | 3U01AR079717-03S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11190081 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 unrelated to chikungunya may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the effectiveness of methotrexate, a medication commonly used for autoimmune diseases, 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 treatment's impact on arthritis severity and inflammation by analyzing synovial tissue samples. The goal is to provide evidence-based recommendations for treating this condition, which currently lacks standard treatment options.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new, effective treatment option for patients suffering from chronic arthritis due to chikungunya virus.
How similar studies have gone: While methotrexate is commonly used for other 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.