Controlling cellular aging using engineered genetic systems
Official title: Engineered genetic clocks for control of cellular aging
Funded at University of California, San Diego · NIH-11052456 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring ways to slow down the aging of cells using advanced techniques, starting with yeast, to help us understand how we might improve health and treat age-related diseases like cancer and Alzheimer's in people.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2024 |
| Project end | December 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $596,050 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AG086348-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11052456 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing age-related diseases or conditions, particularly those related to cellular aging.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with acute or non-age-related conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how to manipulate the aging process of cells by using synthetic biology and computational modeling. The focus is on understanding the mechanisms of cellular aging in yeast, which can provide insights applicable to human aging and age-related diseases. By engineering specific gene networks, the researchers aim to slow down the aging process and improve cellular health. This innovative approach could lead to breakthroughs in treating conditions like cancer and neurodegenerative disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that slow down cellular aging and improve health outcomes for age-related diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Other research in synthetic biology has shown promise in manipulating biological processes, suggesting potential success for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Diego
La Jolla, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hao, Nan — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Hao, Nan
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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.