How mitochondria change with age and affect Alzheimer's
Role of Mitochondrial Homeostasis in Animal Aging
This work looks at whether mitochondrial DNA that leaks out of cells triggers inflammation that speeds up aging and Alzheimer's disease in older adults.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11249594 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
From a patient's view, scientists use animal models to see how mitochondria fail with age and release their DNA into cells, which can turn on inflammatory signals in the brain. They study a decline in mitochondrial cleanup (mitophagy) and the buildup of cytosolic mitochondrial DNA in aged tissues, including the brain. Using genetic tools in flies, the team reduces activity of a DNA‑sensing protein called EYA in neurons to see if that lowers brain inflammation and improves lifespan and health. The goal is to link these basic findings to Alzheimer's pathways so future treatments might target mitochondrial DNA release or its sensing.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Older adults at risk for Alzheimer's disease or those with early-stage Alzheimer's or mild cognitive impairment would be most relevant for future human studies informed by this work.
Not a fit: Because the work is preclinical in animal models, people with late-stage Alzheimer's or those seeking immediate treatments are unlikely to benefit directly right now.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could point to new ways to lower brain inflammation and slow cognitive decline in people at risk for or with Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have reported mitochondrial DNA in Alzheimer's brains and linked poor mitophagy to aging, but targeting DNA‑sensing pathways like EYA is a newer approach mostly tested in preclinical models so far.
Where this research is happening
Los Angeles, United States
- University of California Los Angeles — Los Angeles, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Walker, David W — University of California Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Walker, David W
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.