Testing a drug to help aging dogs live longer and healthier lives
Official title: Test of Rapamycin in Aging Dogs (TRIAD)
Funded at Texas A&m Agrilife Research · NIH-11027111 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Texas A&m Agrilife Research NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (College Station, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | December 1, 2024 |
| Project end | November 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $2,015,762 |
| NIH project number | 1R01AG090843-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11027111 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are companion dogs that are moderate to large in size and are normatively aging without significant health issues.
✕Less likely to help
Dogs that are younger than 7 years old or those with pre-existing health conditions may not benefit from this research.
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.
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 gone: Previous studies have shown promising results with rapamycin in laboratory animals, indicating potential for success in this canine trial.
Where this research is happening
-
Texas A&m Agrilife Research
College Station, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Creevy, Kate Elizabeth — Texas A&m Agrilife Research
- Study coordinator: Creevy, Kate Elizabeth
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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.