Investigating how aging affects specific brain neurons in humans
Official title: Human‐specific vulnerabilities and compensatory adaptations to age‐related stressors in selectively vulnerable midbrain dopaminergic neurons
Funded at University of California, San Francisco · NIH-10936771 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain brain cells change as we get older and how they handle stress, comparing human cells to those from chimpanzees and monkeys, to help us understand more about conditions like Parkinson's disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Francisco NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project start | August 15, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $866,764 |
| NIH project number | 1R01AG087959-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10936771 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include older adults who may be at risk for neurodegenerative conditions, particularly those with a family history of Parkinson's disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with acute neurological injuries or those who are not experiencing age-related cognitive decline may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the unique vulnerabilities and adaptive responses of midbrain dopaminergic neurons in humans as they age. By comparing human neurons with those from chimpanzees and rhesus macaques, the study aims to understand how these neurons cope with age-related stressors. The researchers will utilize advanced techniques such as stem cell-derived organoids, machine learning, and CRISPR technology to analyze gene responses and protective mechanisms. This interdisciplinary approach will provide insights into the biological processes that may contribute to disorders like Parkinson's disease.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for protecting brain neurons from age-related damage, potentially improving outcomes for patients with neurodegenerative diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in understanding neuroprotective mechanisms in similar contexts, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Francisco
San Francisco, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pollen, Alexander a — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Pollen, Alexander a
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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.