ARPA-H announces first program launch

ARPA-H has launched its first program, Novel Innovations for Tissue Regeneration in Osteoarthritis, or NITRO.

NITRO will explore technologies focused on injectable bone regeneration, injectable cartilage regeneration and replacement joints built from human cells. These minimally invasive technologies could reverse the damage caused by osteoarthritis, which is the third leading cause of disability in the U.S. and for which existing treatments are largely heavily invasive (i.e. surgery).

NITRO Program Manager Ross Uhrich said, “While it is an ambitious task, the goal of NITRO is to eradicate OA through targeted, regenerative therapeutics that aim to revolutionize care, prevent pain, lessen the economic burden, and eliminate the need for repeat joint surgery.” ARPA-H will issue a Broad Agency Announcement to solicit proposals for this program. Abstracts will be due on June 23, and full proposals will be due on July 28.

ARPA-H anticipates making multiple awards under this announcement. Total funding and funding per award will depend on the quality of the proposals and the availability of funds.

A Proposers’ Day for interested research teams or performers is scheduled for June 15 and provides an opportunity to ask question and discuss ideas with ARPA-H staff.