How calorie restriction affects aging and heart health through mitochondrial DNA changes

Calorie Restriction, Mitochondrial DNA Heteroplasmy, Cardiometabolic Profiles, and Biological Aging

['FUNDING_R21'] · TUFTS UNIVERSITY BOSTON · NIH-10788975

This study is looking at how eating fewer calories might affect aging and heart health by checking changes in your body's energy-making DNA, and it could help you understand how adjusting your diet might improve your health over time.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorTUFTS UNIVERSITY BOSTON (nih funded)
Locations1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10788975 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how calorie restriction (CR) may influence biological aging and cardiometabolic health by examining changes in mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA). The study utilizes existing blood samples from a previous trial to analyze mtDNA heteroplasmic mutations at multiple time points. By understanding the relationship between CR and mtDNA integrity, the research aims to uncover mechanisms that could enhance longevity and reduce disease risk. Patients may gain insights into how dietary changes could impact their health over time.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals interested in the effects of calorie restriction on aging and those at risk for cardiometabolic diseases.

Not a fit: Patients who are not interested in dietary changes or those with severe metabolic disorders may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide valuable insights into dietary interventions that promote healthier aging and reduce the risk of cardiometabolic diseases.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies, such as the CALERIE trial, have shown promising results regarding the effects of calorie restriction on biological aging and health markers.

Where this research is happening

BOSTON, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.