Investigating how gut stress signals can promote healthy aging and protein balance
Gut stress-induced intercellular signaling networks promoting longevity and proteostasis
This study is looking at how our gut can send helpful signals to the rest of our body as we get older, especially to keep us healthy and prevent issues like dementia and metabolic problems, and it aims to find new ways to support healthy aging.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of North Carolina Charlotte NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlotte, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11077335 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores how signals from the gut can influence the health of the entire body, particularly as we age. It focuses on understanding the role of gut cells in producing signals that help maintain protein balance and prevent age-related diseases like dementia and metabolic disorders. Using a model organism called C. elegans, the researchers will study how mild stress in the gut can trigger protective responses in other tissues, potentially leading to new therapies for healthy aging. The goal is to identify these signaling networks to develop interventions that promote longevity and tissue health.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults experiencing age-related health issues, particularly those related to protein misfolding diseases.
Not a fit: Patients who are not experiencing age-related conditions or those with acute health issues unrelated to aging may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that enhance healthy aging and reduce the risk of age-related diseases.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of leveraging gut signaling for healthy aging is relatively novel, there is growing evidence that gut health plays a crucial role in overall health and longevity.
Where this research is happening
Charlotte, United States
- University of North Carolina Charlotte — Charlotte, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Van Oosten-Hawle, Patricija — University of North Carolina Charlotte
- Study coordinator: Van Oosten-Hawle, Patricija
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.