Exploring how young blood can improve brain function in older adults

Systemic Mechanisms of Brain Rejuvenation

NIH-funded research University of California, San Francisco · NIH-11060956

This study is looking at whether certain substances found in the blood of young mice can help improve brain function in older adults, with the hope of finding new ways to tackle memory and thinking problems that come with aging.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Francisco NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Francisco, United States)
Project IDNIH-11060956 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the potential of using factors found in young blood to enhance cognitive function in older adults. By examining how these circulating factors can rejuvenate the brain, the study aims to understand their effects on neurogenesis and cognitive decline associated with aging. The approach includes administering platelet factors derived from young or exercised mice to see if they can reverse age-related impairments in brain function. This innovative method could lead to new therapies for age-related cognitive disorders.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old who are experiencing age-related cognitive decline or neurodegenerative conditions.

Not a fit: Patients with cognitive impairments not related to aging or those under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to groundbreaking treatments that improve cognitive function and quality of life for older adults experiencing memory decline.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results using young blood and its components to rejuvenate brain function, indicating a potential for success in this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

San Francisco, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions age associated diseaseage associated disorder
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.