Human longevity gene changes tested in mice
Validation and characterization of the identified variants associated with human longevity in mouse models
Researchers are testing whether rare gene changes found in very long-lived people can make mice age more slowly and stay healthier longer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Albert Einstein College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Bronx, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11161522 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project takes gene variants found in Ashkenazi Jewish centenarians and introduces or alters them in mouse models to see how they affect aging and health. Scientists use both accelerated-aging mice and normally aged mice, change gene activity (for example reducing ATM or NF-kB or boosting SIRT6), and give experimental drugs that target those pathways. The team measures signs of cellular aging, physical health, and lifespan in the mice to see which variants or treatments help. Results in mice would guide drug discovery and future human-focused work.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People interested in longevity research or who carry related genetic variants might be candidates for future studies that follow from this work.
Not a fit: Those without the specific genetic pathways targeted or people seeking immediate treatments should not expect direct benefit from this preclinical mouse work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to drug targets or therapies that help people live healthier for longer.
How similar studies have performed: Previous mouse work from this team showed that reducing ATM and NF-kB activity or increasing SIRT6 improved healthspan in mice, but translating those findings to people remains unproven.
Where this research is happening
Bronx, United States
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine — Bronx, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Niedernhofer, Laura Jane — Albert Einstein College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Niedernhofer, Laura Jane
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 below.