Understanding how a gene called PHF6 affects the aging of blood stem cells

The role of PHF6 in the control of hematopoietic stem cell aging.

NIH-funded research Columbia University Health Sciences · NIH-11091487

This research explores how a specific gene, PHF6, influences the aging process of blood-forming stem cells, which could help us understand age-related health issues.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionColumbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-11091487 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

As we get older, our blood-forming stem cells can become less effective, leading to health problems. This project looks at a gene called PHF6, which seems to play a role in this aging process. Researchers are using advanced tools like CRISPR to study what happens when PHF6 is missing in both mouse models and human blood stem cells. The goal is to understand how changes in this gene might prevent or reverse the decline in these important cells as we age.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: This foundational research is not currently recruiting patients but aims to benefit individuals experiencing age-related decline in blood and immune system function in the future.

Not a fit: Patients whose conditions are unrelated to the aging of blood-forming stem cells may not directly benefit from this specific research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new ways to keep our blood-forming stem cells healthy as we age, potentially preventing or treating age-related blood disorders and immune system decline.

How similar studies have performed: Initial findings from this team suggest that losing the PHF6 gene can improve blood stem cell function and reduce age-related decline, indicating a promising, yet novel, approach.

Where this research is happening

New York, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 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.