Understanding how aging affects brain cells at a molecular level
Epigenome-based Cell Census and Regulatory Element Discovery in the Aging Mouse Brain
This study is looking at how brain cells change as they get older, especially focusing on tiny chemical changes in their DNA, to help us understand more about aging and conditions like Alzheimer's disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Salk Institute for Biological Studies NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-10662306 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the molecular changes that occur in brain cells as they age, focusing on specific epigenomic marks like DNA methylation. By using advanced techniques such as single-cell DNA methylation and chromatin profiling, the study aims to identify how these changes affect gene expression in different types of brain cells. The research will compare the epigenomic signatures of middle-aged and aged mice, including those on caloric restriction, to better understand the aging process in the brain. This could provide insights into the mechanisms underlying age-related conditions like Alzheimer's disease.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would be individuals interested in the biological mechanisms of aging and those at risk for age-related cognitive disorders.
Not a fit: Patients with acute neurological conditions or those not experiencing age-related cognitive decline may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating age-related cognitive decline and diseases such as Alzheimer's.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success in using single-cell epigenomic techniques to understand cellular changes in various tissues, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights in the context of aging.
Where this research is happening
La Jolla, UNITED STATES
- Salk Institute for Biological Studies — La Jolla, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ecker, Joseph R — Salk Institute for Biological Studies
- Study coordinator: Ecker, Joseph R
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.