How increased transposition affects aging
Official title: Genetic and genomic effects of increased transposition
Funded at Brandeis University · NIH-10855751 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain genetic elements in fruit flies might affect aging and age-related diseases, hoping to uncover new insights that could help us understand why we age and how to stay healthier as we get older.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Brandeis University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Waltham, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $331,187 |
| NIH project number | 1R01AG086692-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10855751 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals interested in the biological mechanisms of aging and those affected by age-related conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not experiencing age-related diseases or conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of retrotransposon activity in the aging process using Drosophila, a fruit fly model. By examining how the expression of retrotransposon mRNA changes with age, the study aims to determine whether this activity contributes to aging and age-related diseases. The researchers will utilize genetic tools and established observations in Drosophila to explore the molecular mechanisms behind aging. This approach could provide insights into the biological processes that underlie lifespan and health decline as organisms age.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for understanding and potentially mitigating age-related diseases.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of examining retrotransposon activity in aging is novel, similar studies have successfully used Drosophila to uncover important biological insights into aging.
Where this research is happening
-
Brandeis University
Waltham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Marr, Michael Thomas — Brandeis University
- Study coordinator: Marr, Michael Thomas
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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.