Understanding how aging affects blood stem cells
Official title: The Role of Hsf1 in Hematopoietic Stem Cell Aging
Funded at University of California, San Diego · NIH-10929356 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how aging affects the blood-making stem cells in older adults, especially those who might struggle with issues like anemia, and it’s exploring a specific protein that could help keep these cells healthy and working well.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $41,252 |
| NIH project number | 5F31HL170531-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10929356 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults experiencing age-related blood disorders, such as anemia or compromised immune function.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are younger and do not have any blood-related health issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the aging process of hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs), which are responsible for producing blood and immune cells throughout a person's life. It focuses on how aging impacts the ability of these stem cells to regenerate and maintain healthy blood cell production, particularly in older adults who may experience conditions like anemia and bone marrow failure. The study examines the role of a key protein, Heat shock factor 1 (Hsf1), in maintaining the health and function of these stem cells under stress. By exploring the mechanisms of protein homeostasis and stress responses in aging HSCs, the research aims to uncover potential therapeutic targets for improving blood cell regeneration in older individuals.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for enhancing blood cell production and improving immune function in older adults.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of proteostasis in stem cell aging, indicating that this approach has potential for significant findings.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Diego
La Jolla, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhou, Fanny Jiahua — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Zhou, Fanny Jiahua
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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.