Understanding how aging affects immune cells called macrophages
Official title: Exploring the fundamental cellular mechanisms driving cellular senescence in macrophages
Funded at University of California Los Angeles · NIH-11022688 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain immune cells called macrophages change as we age and how these changes might play a role in diseases like Alzheimer's and heart problems, with the goal of helping us understand aging better and its impact on our health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2025 |
| Project end | November 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $393,750 |
| NIH project number | 1R35GM156893-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11022688 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults experiencing age-related conditions such as Alzheimer's disease or cardiovascular diseases.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are younger and do not have age-related diseases may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the cellular mechanisms that lead to a state called senescence in macrophages, which are important immune cells. It aims to uncover how these senescent macrophages contribute to various diseases, including Alzheimer's and atherosclerosis, by studying the genes and signaling pathways involved. The research will also explore the inflammatory factors these cells secrete, which can impact tissue health and disease progression. By gaining insights into macrophage senescence, the study hopes to improve our understanding of aging and its effects on health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for treating age-related diseases and improving overall health in older adults.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding cellular senescence and its implications for aging and disease, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California Los Angeles
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Covarrubias, Anthony Joseph — University of California Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Covarrubias, Anthony Joseph
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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.