# Targeted nanoparticles for biomedical applications

> **NIH NIH R21** · EMORY UNIVERSITY · 2020 · $171,600

## Abstract

Project Summary/Abstract:
 Improved bone health and the subsequent reduction in fracture risk represents a significant health
intervention, improving longevity as well as quality of life in aging populations. The development of “anabolic”
agents that can promote the rebuilding of lost bone mass would represent a significant impact on the field and
on the treatment of bone disease. We have engineered a bio-active silica based nanoparticle capable of
promoting osteoblast differentiation and mineralization while inhibiting osteoclastogenesis and therefore these
nanoparticles have the potential to promote new bone formation while simultaneously reducing bone
breakdown. The goals of this study are to further investigate these novel nanoparticles for the treatment of
systemic bone disease. The studies proposed herein will test the hypothesis that engineered silica based
nanoparticles represent a novel therapeutic agent capable of preventing and/or reversing bone loss in a pre-
clinical model of post-menopausal bone loss. We will investigate the optimal method of administration as well
as attempt to increase efficacy through bone targeting surface properties. Endpoints include a quantitation of
nanoparticle absorption relevant to route of administration, quantitative and qualitative analysis of bone
metabolism and serum markers. Additionally, we will utilize a reporter mouse to assess the possibility that the
nanoparticles work in part by stimulation of autophagy.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 9850538
- **Project number:** 5R21AR073593-02
- **Recipient organization:** EMORY UNIVERSITY
- **Principal Investigator:** GEORGE R. BECK
- **Activity code:** R21 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2020
- **Award amount:** $171,600
- **Award type:** 5
- **Project period:** 2019-01-15 → 2022-06-30

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/9850538

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 9850538, Targeted nanoparticles for biomedical applications (5R21AR073593-02). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-11 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/9850538. Licensed CC0.

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