Investigating how glucagon affects aging in people on calorie restriction
Official title: Serum markers of glucagon sensitivity in calorie restricted humans
Funded at University of Arizona · NIH-11056968 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a hormone called glucagon might help us live healthier and longer by understanding its role in calorie restriction, and it's for anyone interested in how diet can improve health as we age.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Arizona NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Tucson, United States) |
| Project start | November 15, 2024 |
| Project end | October 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $425,958 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AG086805-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11056968 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults who are interested in the effects of calorie restriction on aging and metabolic health.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not on calorie restriction or those with conditions that contraindicate dietary changes may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the role of glucagon, a hormone that counteracts insulin, in promoting longevity and improving metabolic health through calorie restriction. By analyzing samples from participants in the CALERIE™ trial, the study aims to understand how glucagon contributes to the benefits of calorie restriction, such as extending healthspan and lifespan. The researchers will examine glucagon's effects on various metabolic pathways and its potential to be used in treatments for aging-related conditions. This work could lead to new insights into how dietary interventions can enhance health as we age.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that promote healthy aging and improve metabolic health in individuals.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results regarding the role of glucagon in metabolic health, suggesting that this approach could yield significant insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Arizona
Tucson, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Stern, Jennifer Helene — University of Arizona
- Study coordinator: Stern, Jennifer Helene
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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.