How aging affects immune cells called macrophages
Transcriptional Regulators in Aging Macrophages
This study is looking at how immune cells called macrophages change as they get older and how these changes might lead to health issues in older people, with the hope of finding ways to keep these cells working well as we age.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northwestern University at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10862664 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the changes in macrophages, a type of immune cell, as they age and how these changes contribute to age-related diseases. By examining macrophages in the ankle joints of mice, the study aims to understand the specific transcription factors and signals that alter macrophage function over time. The researchers will use advanced genomic techniques to identify the regulatory mechanisms that lead to dysfunction in aging macrophages, which could help in developing strategies to maintain their health and effectiveness. This work is crucial for understanding how systemic inflammation impacts macrophage behavior in older individuals.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults experiencing age-related health issues, particularly those related to inflammation and immune function.
Not a fit: Patients who are younger and do not have age-related conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating age-related diseases by improving macrophage function.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding immune cell behavior in aging, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Chicago, United States
- Northwestern University at Chicago — Chicago, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Winter, Deborah Rachelle — Northwestern University at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Winter, Deborah Rachelle
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.