Investigating how lifestyle affects immune aging in older populations
Official title: Exploring the consequences of differential immune investment on molecular aging phenotypes in subsistence-level populations
Funded at Vanderbilt University · NIH-10996675 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how different ways of living affect the immune system and aging in older adults, especially among the Tsimane people in Bolivia, to find out why some groups have fewer age-related health problems like dementia and diabetes.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Vanderbilt University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $79,459 |
| NIH project number | 1F32AG090007-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10996675 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults aged 65 and above, particularly those from subsistence-level backgrounds or with diverse lifestyles.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are younger than 65 or those with pre-existing severe chronic conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores how different lifestyles impact immune function and aging in older adults, particularly in subsistence-level populations like the Tsimane in Bolivia. By comparing immune responses across various lifestyles, the study aims to uncover why some groups experience fewer age-related diseases such as dementia and diabetes. Utilizing advanced 'omics' technologies, the research will analyze immune activity and its relationship with lifestyle factors. The findings could provide insights into preventing age-related health issues.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing age-related diseases in older adults.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding immune function in subsistence-level populations, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Vanderbilt University
Nashville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Watowich, Marina — Vanderbilt University
- Study coordinator: Watowich, Marina
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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.