Investigating how mitochondrial peptides can improve immune function in aging

Mitochondrial-encoded immunity in restoring macrophage homeostasis under age-related metabolic stress

NIH-funded research University of Southern California · NIH-10928108

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 typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Southern California NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-10928108 on NIH RePORTER

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.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults experiencing metabolic stress or related immune dysfunction.

Not a fit: Patients who are not experiencing age-related metabolic issues or immune dysfunction may not benefit from this research.

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 performed: 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

Los Angeles, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.