How sensing damaged DNA affects immune cell health and aging

Cytosolic DNA sensing instructs resident macrophage vitality and organismal longevity

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · TUFTS UNIVERSITY BOSTON · NIH-10901044

This study is looking at how certain immune cells in our bodies react to damaged DNA and how this might affect aging and long-term inflammation, which could help us understand age-related diseases and how to stay healthier as we get older.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorTUFTS UNIVERSITY BOSTON (nih funded)
Locations1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10901044 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how the immune cells known as resident macrophages respond to damaged DNA and its implications for aging and chronic inflammation. By utilizing advanced techniques like single-cell RNA sequencing, the study aims to understand the role of specific signaling pathways (cGAS/STING) in maintaining the health and function of these immune cells across various tissues. The findings could reveal how these processes contribute to age-related diseases and overall longevity.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include older adults experiencing chronic inflammation or age-related health issues.

Not a fit: Patients with acute inflammatory conditions unrelated to aging may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for enhancing immune cell function and reducing age-related diseases.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of cGAS/STING signaling in cellular aging, suggesting potential for success in this area.

Where this research is happening

BOSTON, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Autoimmune Diseases, autoimmune disorder, autoimmunity disease, Cancers, neoplasm/cancer

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.