Using nanoparticles to control arthritis flares
Official title: Immunoregulatory biomaterials for modulating arthritis flares
Funded at University of California, San Diego · NIH-10901486 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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 type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project start | August 19, 2024 |
| Project end | August 18, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $41,566 |
| NIH project number | 1F31AR083236-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10901486 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with autoimmune arthritis who experience frequent flares despite being on disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have autoimmune arthritis or those who do not experience flares may not benefit from this research.
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.
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 gone: 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
-
University of California, San Diego
La Jolla, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Johnson, Wade Truman — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Johnson, Wade Truman
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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.