Localize and Controlled co-delivery of AuNPs conjugated siRNA by Cationic Shear-thinning Gel Matrix for Treatment of Arthritis (DesiRTA)

Arthritis is a common metabolic and immune associate disease that causes chronic pain and inflammation in a joint. Approximately

312 million people are affected by arthritis globally. It affects adults of all ages, both sexes, and all races and ethnicities, but the

prevalence in women is more than in men. Professional organizations have established many arthritis treatment regimens and

management guidelines; in those nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), steroids and biologicals are the main ones. These are

effective against the disease aggressiveness and pain up to some extent, but the problem is this treatment is only symptomatic and

requires taking them lifelong; in that case, these drugs cause severe health problems and again increase the economic burden. For

these reasons, we need to develop a therapeutic technique and medication that can eliminate the symptom and causes of the disease

forever and prevent the ever-increasing number of patients worldwide. DesiTRA projects are an effort in the same vein to develop an

effective therapeutic alternative for arthritis that will avoid the aggravation of disease symptoms and cause of the disease together,

without causing any health-associated side effects. In this, mainly gold nanoparticle (AuNPs) conjugated siRNA will be delivered at the

disease site locally. Modified polysaccharides will increase the stability and release rate of AuNPs-siRNA, and these assemblies will be

delivered very controlled and precisely through a synovial fluid mimicking the shear-thinning hydrogel system. The ambitious

project will be conducted at two different groups and laboratories in Ireland and Portugal. The project involves experienced

researchers of other but related areas that will allow applicants to work in multidisciplinary aspects. The prestigious fellowship will

provide a plate form of renowned subject experts, and exposure to international collaborators will provide a unique opportunity to

grow as a true researcher