New mouse model of mitochondrial DNA damage
Novel Knock-in mtDNA Mouse Model to Study Mitochondrial Dysfunction
Researchers are creating a mouse that mimics mitochondrial DNA damage linked to Alzheimer's and other age-related diseases to learn how that damage harms cells and organs.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Rhode Island NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Kingston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11124702 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project will make mice that carry a faulty version of the enzyme that copies mitochondrial DNA, causing mutations similar to those seen in aging. Scientists will follow how these mutations change cellular energy production, increase cell death, and affect tissue and organ function over time. The team will look specifically for brain changes and signs related to Alzheimer's and other age-related conditions. Findings are intended to reveal biological mechanisms that could guide later development of treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: There is no patient enrollment in this preclinical mouse project, but people with Alzheimer's, related dementias, or age-related metabolic diseases are the groups who could benefit from future discoveries.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment or clinical trial enrollment are unlikely to benefit now because this is lab-based animal research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could clarify how mitochondrial DNA damage contributes to Alzheimer's and point to new targets for therapies.
How similar studies have performed: Related 'mtDNA mutator' mouse models have produced premature-aging features and tissue decline, supporting the model approach, but directly linking mtDNA mutations to Alzheimer's outcomes is still exploratory.
Where this research is happening
Kingston, United States
- University of Rhode Island — Kingston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ross, Jaime Marie — University of Rhode Island
- Study coordinator: Ross, Jaime Marie
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 below.