# Engineering Polymers to Scavenge DAMPs in Arthritis and Lupus

> **NIH NIH R01** · DUKE UNIVERSITY · 2022 · $656,459

## Abstract

Abstract/Statement of Work
Previous studies from our laboratories have indicated that nucleic acid binding polymers (NABPs), also
termed nuclear acid scavengers (NASs), can inhibit immune responses induced by nucleic acids in
both acute and chronic models in lupus prone mice. While these studies indicate the potential utility of
NASs as a therapy for lupus, many aspects of their pharmacologic properties are less than ideal.
Therefore, to advance this novel approach, we will utilize cutting edge bioengineering strategies to
create novel, biocompatible NABPs for in vivo use as nucleic acid scavengers. Finally, the proposed
research will incorporate studies with lupus patient material as well as animal models to address
fundamental issues on nucleic acid DAMP (Damage Associated Molecular Pattern) responses, identify
novel biomarkers for disease progression and classification and elucidate the mechanism(s) by which
NABPs sequester and scavenge nucleic acids to prevent (or disrupt) the formation of immune
complexes and thereby reduce the pathogenic potential of such DAMPs. Three specific aims are
proposed:
Aim #1: To rationally engineer biocompatible, nucleic acid scavengers with optimized binding to
 nucleic acid-containing DAMPs and associated DAMP complexes.
Aim #2: To evaluate the therapeutic efficacy, safety, biodistribution and biocompatibility of
 soluble and nanoparticle containing nucleic acid scavengers in mouse models of lupus
 that display renal, cutaneous and arthritic manifestations.
Aim #3: To elucidate the mechanism(s) by which nucleic acid scavengers counteract the ability
 of nucleic acid-containing DAMPs to activate inflammatory cells in mice and in patient
samples.
Successful completion of the studies proposed will set the stage for the clinical development of a novel
class of safe and potent anti-inflammatory agents for lupus and lupus-arthritis patients.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 10470805
- **Project number:** 5R01AR073935-05
- **Recipient organization:** DUKE UNIVERSITY
- **Principal Investigator:** KAM W LEONG
- **Activity code:** R01 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2022
- **Award amount:** $656,459
- **Award type:** 5
- **Project period:** 2018-08-15 → 2024-07-31

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/10470805

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 10470805, Engineering Polymers to Scavenge DAMPs in Arthritis and Lupus (5R01AR073935-05). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-24 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/10470805. Licensed CC0.

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