Understanding how aging affects movement in the spinal cord
Official title: Cellular and molecular changes in the spinal cord that cause motor deficits in old age
Funded at Massachusetts General Hospital · NIH-11007164 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how aging affects the nerve cells in the spinal cord that control movement in people over 65, with the hope of finding ways to help older adults keep or regain their ability to move easily.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2020 |
| Project end | January 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $87,923 |
| NIH project number | 5K00AG068442-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11007164 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 65 and older who experience motor deficits or difficulties with daily activities.
✕Less likely to help
Patients under the age of 65 or those without motor function impairments may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the cellular and molecular changes in the spinal cord that lead to motor deficits in individuals aged 65 and older. By examining the role of α-motor neurons and their synaptic connections, the study aims to identify the mechanisms that contribute to the decline in motor function with age. The approach involves analyzing synaptic inputs and the health of motor neurons in aged mice, which may provide insights applicable to human aging. The ultimate goal is to develop treatments that can help preserve or restore motor abilities in older adults.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that improve motor function and quality of life for older adults.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding age-related motor deficits, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Massachusetts General Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Castro, Ryan — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Castro, Ryan
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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.