How the body's internal clock affects metabolism as we age
Official title: Circadian clock regulation of metabolic pathways in aging
Funded at Beckman Research Institute/city of Hope · NIH-10901023 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how changes in our body's internal clock can affect metabolism and lead to weight gain and diabetes in older adults, helping us understand how to keep our metabolism healthy as we age.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Beckman Research Institute/city of Hope NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Duarte, United States) |
| Project start | September 15, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $440,000 |
| NIH project number | 1R56AG080294-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10901023 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults experiencing obesity or metabolic disorders such as Type II diabetes.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not elderly or do not have metabolic conditions related to aging may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between the circadian clock and metabolic processes in older adults, particularly focusing on how disruptions in this internal clock can lead to obesity and diabetes. By examining the effects of aging on the circadian regulation of metabolism, the study aims to uncover mechanisms that contribute to metabolic decline in elderly individuals. The research will involve analyzing how the circadian clock influences fat and muscle tissue function, which is crucial for maintaining metabolic health in later life.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating obesity and diabetes in older adults.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promising results in understanding the role of circadian rhythms in metabolism, suggesting that this approach could yield significant insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Beckman Research Institute/city of Hope
Duarte, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ma, Ke — Beckman Research Institute/city of Hope
- Study coordinator: Ma, Ke
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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.