How sensing dead worms affects health and lifespan in C. elegans
Official title: Perception of Dead Conspecifics modulates neural signaling and lifespan in Caenorhabditis elegans
Funded at University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-10933017 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how the way tiny worms sense their dead friends affects their health and how long they live, helping us understand more about how our senses can impact well-being and lifespan.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project start | September 29, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $43,555 |
| NIH project number | 5F99NS135768-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10933017 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would be individuals interested in the biological mechanisms of aging and health, particularly those with a focus on sensory processing.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to sensory perception or aging may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the perception of dead conspecifics influences the health and lifespan of the model organism Caenorhabditis elegans. By examining the sensory neurons involved in detecting 'death cues' released by deceased worms, the study aims to uncover the physiological responses triggered by these cues. The approach involves identifying specific neuronal circuits and neurotransmitters that mediate the aversive behaviors and lifespan changes observed in response to these cues. This research could provide insights into the broader implications of sensory perception on health and longevity.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a better understanding of how sensory perception impacts health and lifespan, potentially informing strategies to enhance well-being in humans.
How similar studies have gone: While this specific approach is novel, previous research has shown that sensory perception can significantly influence health outcomes in various animal models.
Where this research is happening
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University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hernandez, Mirella — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Hernandez, Mirella
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.