Using nanoparticles to control arthritis flares

Immunoregulatory biomaterials for modulating arthritis flares

NIH-funded research University of California, San Diego · NIH-10901486

This study is looking at a new way to help people with autoimmune arthritis who still have flare-ups even with current treatments, by using tiny particles to better target the problem areas and improve how well their medications work.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Diego NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (La Jolla, United States)
Project IDNIH-10901486 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a new treatment approach for patients with autoimmune arthritis who experience uncontrolled flares despite existing therapies. The study aims to create a nanoparticle-based immunomodulatory agent that targets the lymph nodes near inflamed joints, enhancing local control of flare-ups without causing widespread immunosuppression. By optimizing the dosage and identifying biomarkers for treatment response, the research seeks to improve the effectiveness of standard arthritis medications. The findings will be tested in a well-established mouse model to evaluate the potential for better flare management.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with autoimmune arthritis who experience frequent flares despite being on disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have autoimmune arthritis or those who do not experience flares may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new, more effective treatment option for managing arthritis flares, reducing joint damage and improving quality of life for patients.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach of using nanoparticles for immunomodulation is innovative, similar strategies have shown promise in other autoimmune conditions, indicating potential for success.

Where this research is happening

La Jolla, 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.
Conditions Autoimmune Diseases
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.