Understanding how a protein called SIRT7 affects aging and cancer
Official title: Histone Deacetylation Signaling in Aging and Cancer Pathways
Funded at Palo Alto Veterans Instit for Research · NIH-11127399 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This research explores how a specific protein, SIRT7, controls cell processes that are important in both aging and the development of cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Palo Alto Veterans Instit for Research NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Palo Alto, United States) |
| Project start | July 9, 2021 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $452,432 |
| NIH project number | 5R01CA268925-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11127399 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
This foundational research does not involve direct patient participation, but future clinical applications may benefit individuals with age-related conditions or specific types of cancer.
✕Less likely to help
Patients seeking immediate treatment options or direct clinical intervention would not directly benefit from this basic science research.
What this research studies
Our bodies have tiny structures called histones that help organize our DNA, and changes to these histones can affect how our genes work. This project focuses on a particular protein, SIRT7, which modifies histones by removing a chemical tag called an acetyl group. We want to learn how SIRT7 normally works to keep cells healthy and how its activity changes in aging and cancer. By understanding these basic mechanisms, we hope to uncover new ways that cells become unhealthy and contribute to age-related diseases and cancer.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new ways to prevent or treat age-related diseases and various cancers by targeting SIRT7 or related cellular processes.
How similar studies have gone: Preliminary studies in mice suggest that increasing SIRT7 may protect against aging-related problems, while other work shows it can also support cancer growth, indicating a complex role.
Where this research is happening
-
Palo Alto Veterans Instit for Research
Palo Alto, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chua, Katrin F. — Palo Alto Veterans Instit for Research
- Study coordinator: Chua, Katrin F.
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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.