How cells manage aging and prevent cancer development

A nucleus-to-mitochondria nucleic acid-sensing pathway prevents bypass of age-associated proliferative boundaries

NIH-funded research Salk Institute for Biological Studies · NIH-10873764

This study is looking at how our cells deal with aging and what helps keep them from turning into cancer as they get older, using special tools to better understand these important processes.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionSalk Institute for Biological Studies NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (La Jolla, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-10873764 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how cells respond to aging and the mechanisms that prevent them from bypassing critical barriers that could lead to cancer. It focuses on a specific pathway that senses nucleic acids from the nucleus to the mitochondria, which plays a role in regulating cell growth and death. By understanding these processes, the research aims to uncover how cells can avoid becoming cancerous as they age. The study employs advanced techniques, including CRISPR, to manipulate and observe these cellular responses.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults who may be at risk for age-related cancers or have conditions related to cellular aging.

Not a fit: Patients who are younger and do not have any signs of age-related cellular issues or cancer may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing age-related cancers and improving overall health in aging populations.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding cellular aging and cancer prevention, making this approach a continuation of established scientific inquiry.

Where this research is happening

La Jolla, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 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.