Improving the function of aging blood stem cells

Preserving bone marrow niche integrity and function to rejuvenate aged hematopoietic stem cells

NIH-funded research University of Florida · NIH-11087651

This study is looking at how getting older affects the blood-making stem cells in our bodies and is exploring a special molecule called Netrin-1 that might help fix these cells and improve their function, which could be really helpful for older adults who need better blood cell production.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Florida NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Gainesville, United States)
Project IDNIH-11087651 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how aging affects hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs), which are crucial for producing blood cells. It focuses on a signaling molecule called Netrin-1 that may help rejuvenate aged HSCs by repairing DNA damage and restoring their function. The study aims to understand the mechanisms behind the aging of the bone marrow niche that supports these stem cells and to explore Netrin-1 as a potential therapeutic target for enhancing blood cell regeneration in older individuals.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults experiencing age-related decline in blood cell production or related health issues.

Not a fit: Patients who are younger or do not have age-related hematopoietic conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve blood cell production and overall health in older adults.

How similar studies have performed: While some studies have explored rejuvenation of stem cells, the specific approach using Netrin-1 is novel and has not been extensively tested.

Where this research is happening

Gainesville, 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 2026-06-09 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.