Understanding how aging affects skin stem cells and finding ways to rejuvenate them
Official title: Aging and Rejuvenation of Skin Stem Cells
Funded at Harvard University · NIH-11003687 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at why our skin's ability to heal and grow hair slows down as we get older, and it’s for anyone interested in how we might help our skin and hair stay healthy as we age by finding ways to wake up sleepy skin cells.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Harvard University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cambridge, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2024 |
| Project end | December 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $517,094 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AR083416-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11003687 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults experiencing hair loss or other age-related skin conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are younger or do not have age-related skin issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the decline in regenerative abilities of skin stem cells as we age, particularly focusing on hair follicle stem cells. It aims to identify specific genes and pathways that contribute to age-related dormancy in these cells. By utilizing advanced techniques, the researchers will rapidly test multiple genetic candidates to uncover potential rejuvenation strategies. The goal is to enhance our understanding of stem cell aging and develop therapies that could restore their function in older individuals.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that rejuvenate aging skin stem cells, potentially improving hair regeneration and overall skin health.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in rejuvenating aged stem cells, indicating that this approach may lead to significant advancements.
Where this research is happening
-
Harvard University
Cambridge, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hsu, Ya-Chieh — Harvard University
- Study coordinator: Hsu, Ya-Chieh
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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.