Therapies targeting pathways tied to long human life
Development of novel therapeutics targeting the identified pathways associated with human longevity
This project develops drugs based on genes found in people who live past 100 to try to reduce cellular aging and inflammation for older adults.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Albert Einstein College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Bronx, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11161525 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers use genetic differences found in centenarians and super-centenarians to pinpoint genes and pathways that seem to promote healthy aging. They design and optimize small molecules using computer screening and chemistry (structure–activity relationships) and test them in cells and animal models for effects on senescence and inflammation. Lead compounds include an IKK/NF-κB inhibitor and an ATM inhibitor, and a natural compound (fucoidan) that activates SIRT6, all of which reduced markers of cellular aging and improved healthspan in mice. The work aims to turn these laboratory findings into therapies that could eventually be tested in people.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for future human studies would be older adults, particularly those with age-related inflammation or markers of cellular senescence, and people interested in interventions to promote healthy aging.
Not a fit: Children and people with acute illnesses unrelated to aging processes are unlikely to benefit from these aging-focused therapies in the near term.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could produce medicines that lower age-related inflammation and cellular senescence and help extend healthy years of life.
How similar studies have performed: Related approaches have shown promising results in cell studies and multiple mouse models, but translation to humans remains unproven.
Where this research is happening
Bronx, United States
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine — Bronx, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Robbins, Paul D. — Albert Einstein College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Robbins, Paul D.
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.