Investigating how mitochondrial quality control affects heart health as we age

Neddylation and mitophagy in cardiac aging

NIH-funded research Ohio State University · NIH-11052479

This study is looking at how a process called mitophagy, which helps clean up damaged parts of our cells, can keep our hearts healthy as we age, and it's testing a promising substance that might boost this process to improve heart function in older adults.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionOhio State University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Columbus, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-11052479 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the role of mitophagy, a process that helps clear damaged mitochondria, in maintaining heart health during aging. By using advanced imaging techniques, the researchers aim to identify agents that can enhance mitophagy and potentially rejuvenate mitochondrial function. One promising agent, MLN4924, has been found to activate mitophagy effectively, which may help combat age-related cardiac dysfunction. The study seeks to explore how improving mitochondrial quality can lead to better heart health in older adults.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults over the age of 21 who are experiencing age-related heart dysfunction or decline.

Not a fit: Patients with non-age-related cardiac issues or those under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that improve heart function and overall health in aging individuals.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results in enhancing mitophagy as a strategy to improve health outcomes in aging, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Columbus, 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 age associated diseaseage associated disorder
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.