How fasting affects aging and diabetes through cellular changes

Fatty acid remodeling of the translatome during fasting and aging

['FUNDING_CAREER'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO · NIH-10887330

This study is looking at how fasting might help slow down aging and lower the chances of getting diseases like type 2 diabetes by changing how our cells work, and it could lead to new ways to improve health for people as they get older.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_CAREER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10887330 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the effects of fasting on cellular processes that may slow aging and reduce the risk of diseases like type 2 diabetes. It focuses on how fasting triggers specific changes in protein translation within cells, particularly through a protein called eIF4E, which plays a crucial role in regulating gene expression related to metabolism. By understanding these mechanisms, the research aims to identify new therapeutic targets that could help prevent age-related health issues and improve overall healthspan. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to dietary or therapeutic interventions based on fasting.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults interested in dietary interventions to manage or prevent aging-related conditions, particularly those at risk for type 2 diabetes.

Not a fit: Patients with acute or severe metabolic disorders unrelated to aging or fasting may not receive benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide new strategies to prevent aging-related diseases and improve health in older adults.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results in understanding the effects of fasting on aging and metabolic health, suggesting that this research builds on established findings.

Where this research is happening

SAN FRANCISCO, 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 →

Conditions: Adult-Onset Diabetes Mellitus

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.