Investigating how metformin affects lifespan using fruit flies
Genome wide association analysis with Drosophila to discover how metformin effects longevity
This study is looking at how the diabetes medication metformin might help fruit flies live longer, and it aims to find out why it works differently in some cases, with hopes of applying what they learn to humans and mice to understand aging better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Brown University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Providence, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10862605 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores the effects of metformin on lifespan by using fruit flies (Drosophila) as a model organism. The team has found that metformin can extend the lifespan of these flies by up to 30% in some conditions, while in others, it may reduce lifespan. The study aims to identify genetic factors that contribute to this variation through genome-wide association analysis and advanced bioinformatics. Additionally, the researchers plan to connect findings from fruit flies to humans and mice to better understand the pathways through which metformin influences aging.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults interested in the effects of metformin on aging and longevity.
Not a fit: Patients who are not taking metformin or are not interested in longevity research may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a better understanding of how metformin can be used to promote longevity in humans.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in using model organisms to study the effects of drugs on lifespan, suggesting this approach has potential.
Where this research is happening
Providence, United States
- Brown University — Providence, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tatar, Marc — Brown University
- Study coordinator: Tatar, Marc
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.