Investigating how aging affects nerve cell degeneration using tiny worms.
Use of C. elegans as a model to study aging-associated neurodegeneration
This study is looking at how getting older affects nerve cells, which can lead to diseases like Alzheimer's, using tiny worms to help understand the process better, and it could eventually help find new ways to keep our nerve cells healthy as we age.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11047656 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how aging contributes to the degeneration of nerve cells, which is a significant risk factor for neurodegenerative diseases. By using the tiny worm C. elegans as a model organism, the researchers aim to uncover the molecular mechanisms that lead to this degeneration. They will employ genetic and genomic techniques to explore how certain signals and proteins, particularly antimicrobial peptides, influence nerve cell health in aging. The findings could provide insights into similar processes in humans, potentially leading to new therapeutic strategies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults who are at risk for neurodegenerative diseases or those experiencing early symptoms of such conditions.
Not a fit: Patients who are not experiencing age-related neurodegenerative issues or are younger than the typical age range for these conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that slow down or prevent neurodegenerative diseases associated with aging.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in using C. elegans to study neurodegeneration, indicating that this approach is both valid and promising.
Where this research is happening
Durham, United States
- Duke University — Durham, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yan, Dong — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Yan, Dong
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.