How maternal age affects the health and lifespan of offspring through mitochondrial mechanisms

Mitochondrial mechanisms of maternal age effects on offspring health and lifespan

NIH-funded research Marine Biological Laboratory · NIH-11054593

This study looks at how being an older mom might affect the health and lifespan of her children by examining tiny parts of cells called mitochondria, which can get damaged over time; the goal is to find out how these changes could impact kids and to discover ways to help improve their health.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMarine Biological Laboratory NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Woods Hole, United States)
Project IDNIH-11054593 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how advanced maternal age impacts the health and lifespan of offspring by focusing on mitochondrial mechanisms. It explores the role of mitochondria, which are inherited from the mother and can become damaged with age, in influencing the health of future generations. The study aims to identify specific mitochondrial changes that occur in older mothers and how these changes affect the development and aging of their offspring. By understanding these mechanisms, the research seeks to uncover potential interventions to improve offspring health outcomes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are women of advanced maternal age who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.

Not a fit: Patients who are younger mothers or those who are not planning to have children may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved health and longevity for children born to older mothers.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has indicated that mitochondrial dysfunction plays a significant role in aging, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Woods Hole, 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 2026-06-13 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.