Investigating how aging affects nerve cell support
Official title: Studying axo-glial interface in aging
Funded at Albany Medical College · NIH-11144517 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how getting older affects special cells that help repair damaged nerves, with the goal of finding new ways to improve nerve healing for older adults.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Albany Medical College NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Albany, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $82,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R03AG089077-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11144517 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 peripheral neuropathies or age-related nerve issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients under the age of 65 or those without nerve-related conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how aging impacts the ability of Schwann cells, which support nerve regeneration, to repair damaged nerves. It examines the changes in Schwann cells as people age, particularly their ability to recognize signals necessary for remyelination, which is crucial for nerve recovery. The researchers have developed a specialized laboratory technique to study the interactions between Schwann cells and nerve cells, aiming to identify the underlying mechanisms that hinder nerve repair in older adults. By exploring these cellular interactions, the research seeks to uncover new pathways for improving nerve repair in aging populations.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that enhance nerve regeneration in older adults, potentially improving their quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: While this research explores novel mechanisms in aging and nerve repair, similar studies have shown promise in understanding nerve regeneration, indicating potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Albany Medical College
Albany, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Belin, Sophie — Albany Medical College
- Study coordinator: Belin, Sophie
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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.