Exploring how mitochondrial mutations affect skin aging
Official title: Understanding mitochondrial mutations that drive human tissue aging
Funded at University of California Los Angeles · NIH-10865814 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how changes in the DNA of tiny energy factories in our skin cells might affect how our skin ages, and it could help find new ways to improve skin health as we get older.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project start | September 12, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $173,788 |
| NIH project number | 1K08AG086582-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10865814 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults experiencing signs of skin aging or related conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with no signs of aging or those with acute skin conditions unrelated to aging may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of mitochondrial genome mutations in the aging of skin tissue. By utilizing advanced sequencing techniques and cell models, the study aims to understand how these mutations contribute to cellular dysfunction and aging processes. The focus is on skin cells, particularly keratinocyte progenitor cells, which are crucial for skin health. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new interventions for age-related skin conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatments that slow down or reverse skin aging.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding mitochondrial mutations in other tissues, suggesting potential for success in this area as well.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California Los Angeles
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Vandiver, Amy R. — University of California Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Vandiver, Amy R.
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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.