Federal Grant Award Summary

Pennsylvania State University's Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center received a $366,053 Project Grant award from the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS) under the Arthritis, Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases Research program (CFDA 93.846), effective June 1, 2026, through May 31, 2028. This award supports fundamental biomedical research investigating the role of adrenergic receptors and G Protein-Coupled Receptor Kinase 2 (GRK2)-mediated desensitization in osteoarthritis (OA) pathogenesis and progression. The research employs genetic and pharmacologic manipulations of beta-2 adrenergic receptors in chondrocytes using disease-modified mouse models to elucidate molecular mechanisms of cartilage degeneration and identify potential therapeutic targets for OA intervention.

The project delivers mechanistic research outputs including preclinical animal model data, peer-reviewed scientific publications, and preliminary findings to support potential future drug development targeting adrenergic receptor signaling pathways. By examining both early and late phases of OA development and investigating GRK2-mediated receptor desensitization mechanisms in normal and pathological human cartilage tissue, the research aims to establish the scientific foundation for novel disease-modifying therapeutic strategies addressing a debilitating joint disease currently lacking disease-modifying treatment options.