Understanding how cells maintain their health and function as they age

Mechanisms of Cellular Maintenance

NIH-funded research University of Wisconsin-Madison · NIH-11116983

This study is looking at how cells stay healthy and work well as we age and face challenges like pollution, using tiny worms to learn more about how they clean up and repair themselves, which could help us understand age-related diseases better.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Madison, United States)
Project IDNIH-11116983 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms that allow cells to maintain their integrity and function over time, particularly in the context of aging and stressors like pollution. Using the model organism C. elegans, the study will explore how mature cells manage the turnover of proteins and organelles, focusing on the role of lysosomes in cellular maintenance. By employing advanced genetic techniques and live imaging, the research aims to uncover the fundamental processes that contribute to cellular health, which could have implications for age-related diseases and conditions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing age-related health issues or those interested in the biological mechanisms of aging.

Not a fit: Patients with acute conditions unrelated to aging or cellular maintenance may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for enhancing cellular maintenance, potentially improving health outcomes in aging populations.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding cellular maintenance mechanisms in various models, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Madison, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.