Understanding how aging affects blood cell mutations and health outcomes

Clonal Hematopoiesis Aging Resiliency Mechanisms

NIH-funded research Vanderbilt University Medical Center · NIH-10973752

This study is looking at how changes in your blood cells as you get older can lead to a condition called clonal hematopoiesis, and it aims to find out why some older people stay healthy even with these changes, so it’s for anyone interested in understanding how aging affects health.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVanderbilt University Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Nashville, United States)
Project IDNIH-10973752 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how DNA mutations in blood cells, which increase with age, can lead to a condition known as clonal hematopoiesis (CH). The study aims to identify mechanisms that contribute to resilience against the negative health impacts of CH, which is linked to various age-related diseases. By analyzing blood samples from older individuals, the researchers will explore the genetic and environmental factors that influence the rate of clonal expansion and its association with health outcomes. This work could provide insights into why some elderly individuals remain healthy despite the presence of these mutations.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 65 and older, particularly those with a history of blood-related health issues.

Not a fit: Patients under the age of 65 or those without any evidence of clonal hematopoiesis may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and management of age-related diseases linked to blood cell mutations.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding clonal hematopoiesis and its implications for health, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Nashville, 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 2026-06-13 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.