How mitochondrial DNA changes with age and stress
Official title: Mitochondrial DNA Compaction and the Accumulation of Mutations with Age and Stress
Funded at J. David Gladstone Institutes · NIH-11104126 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how changes in the DNA found in our cells' powerhouses, called mitochondria, can lead to problems as we get older and face stress, and it hopes to find ways to protect our cells from these issues to help prevent age-related diseases.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | J. David Gladstone Institutes NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project start | June 17, 2025 |
| Project end | April 30, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $793,777 |
| NIH project number | 1R01AG092732-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11104126 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults or individuals experiencing age-related health issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are young and do not have any age-related conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the structure of mitochondrial DNA affects the accumulation of mutations over time, particularly as individuals age and experience stress. By using advanced sequencing techniques, the study aims to measure mutations and damage in mitochondrial DNA, which can contribute to aging and age-related diseases. The research will also explore how mitochondrial DNA compaction can protect against these mutations in human cells and across different cell types as people age. This comprehensive approach may lead to new strategies for preventing or treating degenerative diseases linked to aging.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that slow down aging and reduce the risk of age-related diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding mitochondrial DNA mutations and their role in aging, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
J. David Gladstone Institutes
San Francisco, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shipman, Seth Lawler — J. David Gladstone Institutes
- Study coordinator: Shipman, Seth Lawler
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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.