How selective autophagy affects health as we age

Role of Selective Autophagy in Organismal Health

NIH-funded research Buck Institute for Research on Aging · NIH-11078706

This study is looking at how a process called selective autophagy, which helps keep our cells healthy, might improve our health as we get older, especially by focusing on a protein called p62, and it aims to share helpful insights for patients about staying healthy in their later years.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionBuck Institute for Research on Aging NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Novato, United States)
Project IDNIH-11078706 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of selective autophagy, a process where specific cellular materials are degraded to maintain cellular health, particularly in the context of aging and age-related diseases. By studying a protein called p62, which has been shown to enhance autophagy and promote healthspan in model organisms, the research aims to uncover how this mechanism can be harnessed to improve health outcomes in humans. The approach involves both laboratory experiments and analysis of cellular processes to understand the benefits of selective autophagy on aging. Patients may gain insights into how enhancing autophagy could potentially lead to better health as they age.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults over the age of 21 who are interested in age-related health improvements.

Not a fit: Patients with acute or non-age-related health conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for improving health and longevity in aging individuals.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in using autophagy modulation to improve health outcomes in model organisms, suggesting potential for success in human applications.

Where this research is happening

Novato, 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.
Conditions age associated diseaseage associated disorderage dependent diseaseage dependent disorderage related human disease
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.