Investigating how aging affects DNA and inflammation
Official title: Dysregulation of TET dioxygenase function as a source of aberrant transposable element expression during human aging
Funded at La Jolla Institute for Immunology · NIH-11059061 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how getting older affects our DNA and inflammation in the body, and it hopes to find ways to help people stay healthier as they age by understanding these changes.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | La Jolla Institute for Immunology NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project start | March 20, 2024 |
| Project end | February 28, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $639,037 |
| NIH project number | 5U01AI180152-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11059061 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 65 and older who may be experiencing age-related health issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients younger than 65 or those without age-related conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the relationship between aging, DNA methylation, and inflammation. It focuses on how changes in DNA methylation can lead to the activation of transposable elements, which may contribute to age-related inflammation and cellular damage. By studying these mechanisms, the research aims to uncover potential interventions for disorders associated with aging. Patients may be involved in understanding how these biological processes manifest in their health as they age.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating age-related diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has indicated that understanding DNA methylation and inflammation in aging could lead to significant breakthroughs, suggesting this approach has potential based on earlier findings.
Where this research is happening
-
La Jolla Institute for Immunology
La Jolla, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rao, Anjana — La Jolla Institute for Immunology
- Study coordinator: Rao, Anjana
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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.