Measuring mitochondrial DNA changes to understand biological aging

Mitochondrial DNA Deletion Mutation Frequency as a Metric of Biologic Age

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LOS ANGELES · NIH-11023109

This study is looking at how changes in your DNA might help us understand your biological age and see if anti-aging treatments really work, so we can find better ways to keep you healthy as you get older.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LOS ANGELES (nih funded)
Locations1 site (LOS ANGELES, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11023109 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how the frequency of mitochondrial DNA deletions can serve as a biomarker for biological age and the effectiveness of anti-aging interventions. By analyzing DNA samples from various tissues, the study aims to quantify these deletions using a highly sensitive digital PCR assay. The goal is to establish a reliable measure that correlates with cellular health and aging, potentially guiding future treatments aimed at extending healthspan and reducing age-related diseases.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults who are interested in understanding their biological aging process and may be undergoing interventions to improve their healthspan.

Not a fit: Patients with acute illnesses or those who are not experiencing age-related health issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new way to assess biological age and the effectiveness of interventions aimed at improving health in older adults.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using mitochondrial DNA as a biomarker for aging, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.