How cell antennae (cilia) trigger cells to enter an aged, inflammatory state
A novel cilium-to-nucleus axis promotes cellular senescence
This project looks at how tiny cell antennae called cilia send signals that make cells stop dividing and release inflammation that contributes to aging and cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Mayo Clinic Rochester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Rochester, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11298960 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers are studying human cells and animal models to follow how stress causes cilia to form and send signals into the nucleus. They track a protein called FBF1 moving from the ciliary base to nuclear bodies and map the downstream signals that lock cells into senescence. The team will test ways to block this cilium-to-nucleus signaling and measure effects on inflammatory factors linked to aging and tumor promotion. Findings could point to targets for reducing harmful senescent cell signals.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with age-related conditions or those at higher risk for cancer would be the most likely candidates for future trials built on these findings.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to cellular senescence, such as many acute infections or purely structural injuries, may not see direct benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could identify new targets to reduce harmful signals from senescent cells and potentially slow age-related decline or lower cancer risk.
How similar studies have performed: Animal studies have shown that removing senescent cells can improve lifespan and healthspan, but targeting this specific cilium-to-nucleus pathway is a new, untested approach.
Where this research is happening
Rochester, United States
- Mayo Clinic Rochester — Rochester, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hu, Jinghua — Mayo Clinic Rochester
- Study coordinator: Hu, Jinghua
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.