Understanding how certain organisms avoid aging
Role of transposon regulation in the negligible senescence of S. mediterranea
['FUNDING_R01'] · YALE UNIVERSITY · NIH-11059138
This study looks at how a special type of flatworm keeps its stem cells healthy and stays young, with the hope that what we learn could help people maintain their own stem cell health and fight age-related issues.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | YALE UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (NEW HAVEN, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11059138 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms that allow the planarian species S. mediterranea to maintain healthy stem cells and resist aging. By studying how these organisms regulate transposons and chromatin, the researchers aim to uncover strategies that could potentially prolong stem cell health in humans. The approach involves analyzing age-related markers and the role of transposon silencing in stem cell maintenance, which could provide insights into preventing age-related decline. Patients may benefit from findings that could lead to new treatments for age-related conditions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would be individuals interested in age-related health issues or those with conditions linked to accelerated aging.
Not a fit: Patients with acute or terminal conditions unrelated to aging may not receive benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to breakthroughs in extending the health and function of stem cells, potentially delaying or preventing age-related diseases.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of studying transposon regulation in this context is novel, similar research has shown promise in understanding aging mechanisms in other model organisms.
Where this research is happening
NEW HAVEN, UNITED STATES
- YALE UNIVERSITY — NEW HAVEN, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: VAN WOLFSWINKEL, JOSEPHINA C — YALE UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: VAN WOLFSWINKEL, JOSEPHINA C
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.