Genes that help people live longer and age more healthily
Identification and characterization of functional genetic variants associated with human longevity
This work looks for gene changes that help people live longer and keep their minds healthier as they age, especially in those who reach very old ages.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Albert Einstein College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Bronx, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11161520 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers compare the DNA of very old healthy people (including centenarians) with others to find genetic differences linked to long life and better brain aging. They test promising gene variants in cell models and lab experiments to see how those changes affect proteins and aging pathways like SIRT6 and NF-κB. The team aims to confirm which variants protect tissues from age-related damage and could be targets for new medicines. If you donate a DNA sample or join a related study, your information could help find treatments that slow aging and reduce dementia risk.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal participants are older adults — especially very old healthy individuals or centenarians — or people willing to donate DNA and medical history for aging research.
Not a fit: People seeking immediate treatment for existing Alzheimer's or other conditions should not expect direct personal benefit from this genetic discovery research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to new drug targets that slow age-related decline and lower the risk or severity of Alzheimer’s disease.
How similar studies have performed: Similar research has found longevity-linked genes in animals and some human variants, and this project builds on recent cell-based validations though turning discoveries into therapies remains unproven.
Where this research is happening
Bronx, United States
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine — Bronx, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Suh, Yousin — Albert Einstein College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Suh, Yousin
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 below.