How long-lived animals protect their DNA and epigenome
Mechanisms of epigenome stability in long-lived species.
Researchers compare long-lived animals and human samples to learn how stronger DNA and epigenome maintenance might slow aging and reduce dementia risk.
Quick facts
| Grant type | P01 program project |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Rochester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Rochester, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11182530 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project studies very long-lived mammals (and human centenarians) to find what protects their DNA and epigenome from age-related damage. Scientists measure DNA double-strand break repair, somatic mutation rates, activity of mobile genetic elements, and gene expression patterns tied to inflammation and DNA sensing. They have identified links to the SIRT6 protein and variants enriched in centenarians and compare these molecular features across species. The findings are meant to point toward biological mechanisms that could eventually be used to protect human brains from age-related decline.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Older adults, people with Alzheimer's disease or related dementias, and centenarians who can provide blood or tissue samples would be the most relevant participants for related human-sample work.
Not a fit: People looking for immediate treatments or symptom relief should not expect direct clinical benefit because this is basic, laboratory-focused research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could point to new ways to boost DNA repair or reduce harmful inflammation that may lower Alzheimer's risk or slow dementia progression.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has linked DNA repair genes (including SIRT6) and lower somatic mutation rates to longevity and centenarians, but applying those findings to prevent or treat Alzheimer's remains largely unproven.
Where this research is happening
Rochester, United States
- University of Rochester — Rochester, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gorbunova, Vera — University of Rochester
- Study coordinator: Gorbunova, Vera
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.