Improving frailty in older cancer survivors by targeting aging cells

Targeting Senescence to Improve Frailty in Older Cancer Survivors

NIH-funded research University of California Los Angeles · NIH-10920486

This study is looking at how cancer treatment can make older adults over 65 age faster and become frail, which can lead to losing independence and being at higher risk for falls and other health issues, and it’s testing a special type of medicine that might help improve their health by getting rid of old, tired cells.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California Los Angeles NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Los Angeles, United States)
Project IDNIH-10920486 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how cancer treatment accelerates aging in individuals over 65, leading to frailty, which can result in loss of independence and increased risk of falls and death. The study focuses on understanding the role of cellular senescence, a state where cells stop dividing, in contributing to frailty among older cancer survivors. By exploring the effects of senolytic drugs, such as fisetin, which can eliminate these senescent cells, the research aims to develop interventions that may improve health outcomes for this vulnerable population.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults aged 65 and above who have survived cancer and are experiencing frailty.

Not a fit: Patients who are younger than 65 or those who have not undergone cancer treatment may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that reduce frailty and improve the quality of life for older cancer survivors.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results in targeting senescence to improve health outcomes, indicating that this approach may be effective.

Where this research is happening

Los Angeles, 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.
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.