Testing a drug to help aging dogs live longer and healthier lives

Test of Rapamycin in Aging Dogs (TRIAD)

['FUNDING_R01'] · TEXAS A&M AGRILIFE RESEARCH · NIH-11027111

This study is looking at whether the drug rapamycin can help older dogs live healthier and longer lives, and it’s for dog owners who want to see if this treatment could benefit their furry friends.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorTEXAS A&M AGRILIFE RESEARCH (nih funded)
Locations1 site (College Station, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11027111 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the effects of rapamycin, a drug known for its potential to enhance longevity, on aging companion dogs. The study involves a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial where 580 dogs will receive either rapamycin or a placebo weekly for one year, followed by two years of monitoring. Throughout the trial, various health metrics and samples will be collected to assess the drug's impact on lifespan and healthspan. The research aims to provide insights into how rapamycin can improve the quality of life for aging dogs.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are companion dogs that are moderate to large in size and are normatively aging without significant health issues.

Not a fit: Dogs that are younger than 7 years old or those with pre-existing health conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to longer and healthier lives for aging dogs, improving their quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with rapamycin in laboratory animals, indicating potential for success in this canine trial.

Where this research is happening

College Station, 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.