How metabolism affects stem cell function and maintenance
Official title: Metabolic regulation of the stem cell niche
Funded at University of Louisville · NIH-10974071 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how changes in fat metabolism as we get older can affect the health of stem cells, using fruit flies to help us understand this better, with the hope of finding ways to keep our stem cells working well as we age.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Louisville NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Louisville, United States) |
| Project start | August 15, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $437,366 |
| NIH project number | 1R15AG085260-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10974071 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old who may be experiencing age-related metabolic issues affecting their stem cell function.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to metabolic regulation or those under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between metabolism and the maintenance of stem cells in their specialized environments, known as niches. Using a model organism, the fruit fly, the study aims to understand how age-related changes in lipid metabolism can impact stem cell function. By examining the effects of lipid accumulation on stem cells, the research seeks to uncover mechanisms that lead to stem cell dysfunction as we age. The findings could provide insights into potential interventions to enhance stem cell maintenance and function.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for improving tissue regeneration and combating age-related decline in stem cell function.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of metabolism in stem cell biology, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Louisville
Louisville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Demarco, Rafael S — University of Louisville
- Study coordinator: Demarco, Rafael S
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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.