Exploring genetic changes that may help increase lifespan
Official title: Genome engineering for a novel post-reproductive genetic screen for increased longevity
Funded at University of Oregon · NIH-11078251 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain genetic changes might help people live longer, especially older adults, by using a new method to explore these changes in a lab setting.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Oregon NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Eugene, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2024 |
| Project end | February 28, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $186,250 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AG086869-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11078251 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research are individuals aged 65 and older who are interested in advancements related to aging and longevity.
✕Less likely to help
Patients under the age of 65 or those with conditions that significantly impair their ability to participate in genetic studies may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how specific genetic mutations can influence longevity, particularly in older adults. By utilizing a novel genetic engineering technique called TARDIS, the study aims to identify and propagate mutations that could lead to increased lifespan in a model organism. The approach involves creating a system that allows for targeted changes in the genome, which can then be analyzed for their effects on longevity. This could provide insights into the genetic factors that contribute to aging and longevity.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to breakthroughs in understanding how to promote longer, healthier lives.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has successfully identified mutations associated with increased longevity, but this approach using TARDIS for targeted mutagenesis is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Oregon
Eugene, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Phillips, Patrick C. — University of Oregon
- Study coordinator: Phillips, Patrick C.
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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.