Arctic-Driven science to improve aging health and metabolism
Official title: Arctic-Inspired Research - A Path to Strengthen the Center for Transformative Research in Metabolism
Funded at University of Alaska Fairbanks · NIH-11336132 · Data updated 2026-11-12
Aimed at unlocking biological tricks from Arctic animals to help Alaska’s older adults stay healthier and independent longer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Alaska Fairbanks NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Fairbanks, United States) |
| Project start | July 16, 2019 |
| Project end | May 31, 2031 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $2,321,145 |
| NIH project number | 2P20GM130443-06 |
| Project ID | NIH-11336132 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates are older adults at risk for frailty or dementia who live in Alaska and participate in future translational studies or trials.
✕Less likely to help
People without aging-related health risks or those not living in Alaska may not directly benefit.
What this research studies
This grant supports researchers at the University of Alaska Fairbanks to study how Arctic-adapted animals metabolize aging processes, with outcomes that could lead to new ways to prevent frailty and dementia. The project emphasizes building research capacity, mentoring new investigators, and creating advanced tools and infrastructure for translational science. It focuses on translating discoveries from animals like ground squirrels, black bears, and sled dogs into potential therapies for age-related conditions affecting Alaska’s aging population.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the research could inspire new approaches to keep older adults healthier and reduce the burden of aging-related illnesses.
How similar studies have gone: Previous Arctic biology research has shown promise in understanding aging, but translation to human therapies is still emerging.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Alaska Fairbanks
Fairbanks, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Drew, Kelly L — University of Alaska Fairbanks
- Study coordinator: Drew, Kelly L
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.