Investigating the genetic causes of hair greying in a rare bear species
Official title: Hair-greying and melanocytic regulation of BCL2 in a non-model organism
Funded at Stanford University · NIH-11181667 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain genes might cause hair to turn grey as we age, using a special type of bear from Alaska to help us understand this process better, which could also give us clues about why our hair greys too.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Stanford University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stanford, United States) |
| Project start | September 15, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $187,360 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AG089946-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11181667 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include individuals interested in the genetic factors of aging and hair pigmentation.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with no interest in genetic research or those not affected by hair greying may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the genetic mechanisms behind hair greying, a visible sign of aging, using the glacier bear, a unique variant of the American black bear found in Southeast Alaska. The study focuses on the BCL2 gene, which is believed to play a crucial role in this process. By analyzing the genetic variations in these bears, researchers aim to uncover how specific mutations may influence hair pigmentation and aging. The findings could provide insights into similar processes in humans, potentially leading to new understandings of hair greying.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to breakthroughs in understanding the biological mechanisms of aging and hair greying in humans.
How similar studies have gone: While this research explores a novel approach using a non-model organism, similar genetic studies have shown promise in understanding aging processes in other species.
Where this research is happening
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Stanford University
Stanford, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Barsh, Gregory Stefan — Stanford University
- Study coordinator: Barsh, Gregory Stefan
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.