Investigating DNA changes in a rare aging disorder
Official title: Accelerated DNA Methylation Alterations in Hutchinson-Gilford Progeria Syndrome
Funded at Van Andel Research Institute · NIH-11079605 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how changes in DNA might be speeding up aging in kids with Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome, and it hopes to find ways to help their cells live longer by adjusting these DNA patterns.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Van Andel Research Institute NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Grand Rapids, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $770,473 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AG084743-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11079605 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are children diagnosed with Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other forms of accelerated aging not related to HGPS may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome (HGPS), a rare genetic disorder that causes rapid aging in children. The study aims to analyze DNA methylation alterations associated with this condition, which may contribute to the accelerated aging process. By examining cultured cells from HGPS patients, researchers will explore how manipulating these DNA patterns could potentially extend the lifespan of these cells. The approach includes high-resolution analyses and the development of an epigenetic mitotic clock to better understand cellular aging.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for slowing down the aging process in patients with HGPS.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding DNA methylation and its role in aging, making this approach both relevant and potentially impactful.
Where this research is happening
-
Van Andel Research Institute
Grand Rapids, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Laird, Peter W — Van Andel Research Institute
- Study coordinator: Laird, Peter W
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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.