Investigating how mitochondria change and function during aging
Official title: Interdisciplinary investigation of functional asymmetry and topological restructuring in mitochondrial networks during cellular aging
Funded at Northwestern University · NIH-11170838 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the tiny powerhouses in our cells, called mitochondria, change as we age, and it aims to help us understand how these changes might affect our overall health as we get older.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northwestern University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | September 20, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $388,067 |
| NIH project number | 1R56AG088061-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11170838 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals interested in the biological processes of aging and those with age-related conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with acute or non-age-related conditions may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the role of mitochondria, the energy-producing structures in cells, in the aging process. It focuses on how mitochondria are positioned and how their networks change as cells grow and age. By using advanced techniques to track and analyze individual mitochondria, the study aims to understand the mechanisms that lead to differences in mitochondrial health and function between cells. This could provide insights into how cellular aging occurs and how it might be influenced.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for promoting healthier aging at the cellular level.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding mitochondrial dynamics and their role in aging, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Northwestern University
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lackner, Laura L — Northwestern University
- Study coordinator: Lackner, Laura L
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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.