Investigating how mitochondrial peptides can improve immune function in aging
Official title: Mitochondrial-encoded immunity in restoring macrophage homeostasis under age-related metabolic stress
Funded at University of Southern California · NIH-10928108 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a special peptide called MOTS-c to see if it can help boost the immune system in older adults by improving how immune cells handle stress and inflammation, which could lead to better health as we age.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Southern California NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | August 15, 2023 |
| Project end | August 14, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $48,974 |
| NIH project number | 5F31AG082606-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10928108 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults experiencing metabolic stress or related immune dysfunction.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not experiencing age-related metabolic issues or immune dysfunction may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how a specific mitochondrial peptide, MOTS-c, can help regulate immune responses in aging individuals. By examining the effects of MOTS-c on macrophages, which are crucial immune cells, the study aims to determine if this peptide can enhance their ability to cope with metabolic stress related to aging. The research involves testing the peptide's impact on lipid metabolism and inflammation in laboratory settings, which could lead to new therapeutic strategies for age-related immune dysfunction.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve immune function and metabolic health in older adults.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results with mitochondrial peptides in regulating metabolism and immune responses, indicating potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rice, Michelle C — University of Southern California
- Study coordinator: Rice, Michelle C
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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.