NIH-funded research R21 grant

How changes in tRNA affect aging processes

Official title: Mechanistic tRNA modification affects to aging

Funded at University of Toledo Health Sci Campus · NIH-11039136 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how changes in a special type of molecule called tRNA, which helps make proteins in our cells, might affect how we age and contribute to diseases like heart problems, diabetes, and cancer, especially when our cells are under stress.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Toledo Health Sci Campus
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Toledo, United States)
Project startNovember 15, 2024
Project endOctober 31, 2026
Funding year2025
Award (this year)$430,603
NIH project number1R21AG091047-01
Project IDNIH-11039136 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 65 and older who may be experiencing age-related health issues.

Less likely to help

Patients under the age of 65 or those without age-related health conditions may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of tRNA modifications in the aging process, particularly how these changes can influence protein translation and cellular function. By examining the biochemical alterations in tRNA that occur with age, the study aims to uncover mechanisms that contribute to age-related diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer. The researchers will focus on how oxidative stress impacts tRNA modifications and the subsequent effects on cellular health and aging. This work could lead to a better understanding of the biological processes that underlie aging and associated disorders.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide insights into new therapeutic strategies for age-related diseases, potentially improving health outcomes for older adults.

How similar studies have gone: While the specific focus on tRNA modifications in aging is relatively novel, related research has shown promising results in understanding the role of cellular stress and protein translation in age-related diseases.

Where this research is happening

  • University of Toledo Health Sci Campus
    Toledo, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Prestwich, Erin G — University of Toledo Health Sci Campus
  • Study coordinator: Prestwich, Erin G

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.