Investigating how ZFAND6 affects the removal of damaged mitochondria and inflammation

ZFAND6 regulation of mitophagy and inflammation

NIH-funded research Pennsylvania State Univ Hershey Med Ctr · NIH-11131704

This study is looking at a protein called ZFAND6 to see how it helps cells clean up damaged parts, which could lead to better ways to manage inflammation and age-related diseases that affect the brain, and it might help people understand how to treat these conditions better.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionPennsylvania State Univ Hershey Med Ctr NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Hershey, United States)
Project IDNIH-11131704 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the role of the ZFAND6 protein in regulating mitophagy, which is the process by which cells remove damaged mitochondria. By studying how ZFAND6 influences the cGAS-STING pathway, which is involved in inflammation, the research aims to uncover mechanisms that prevent chronic inflammation associated with aging and neurodegenerative diseases. The approach includes using genetically modified mice to observe the effects of ZFAND6 deficiency on immune responses and inflammation. Patients may benefit from insights gained into how to better manage or treat conditions linked to chronic inflammation.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include older adults experiencing chronic inflammatory conditions or neurodegenerative diseases.

Not a fit: Patients with acute inflammatory conditions unrelated to aging or mitochondrial dysfunction may not receive benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for treating chronic inflammation and related diseases in aging populations.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the role of mitophagy in inflammation, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Hershey, 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.
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.