Understanding how food perception affects longevity in worms

Determining the neural mechanisms of mechanosensory food perception in DR-mediated longevity

['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP'] · UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN AT ANN ARBOR · NIH-10904672

This study looks at how the way we smell and touch food can affect how long tiny worms live and their overall health, which might help us understand how our own eating habits and senses could influence our aging and well-being.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN AT ANN ARBOR (nih funded)
Locations1 site (ANN ARBOR, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10904672 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how different ways of perceiving food, particularly through smell and touch, influence the lifespan and health of the model organism Caenorhabditis elegans. By examining the neural mechanisms involved in these sensory perceptions, the study aims to uncover how they affect dietary restriction, a known factor in promoting longevity. The research utilizes advanced techniques to analyze the signaling pathways in these worms, which could provide insights into the broader implications for aging and health in humans. Patients may benefit from understanding how dietary habits and sensory experiences can impact longevity.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals interested in aging, dietary habits, and their effects on health.

Not a fit: Patients with no interest in dietary restriction or aging-related research may not find this study beneficial.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for promoting healthy aging and longevity in humans.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding dietary restriction and longevity, but this specific approach focusing on mechanosensation is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

ANN ARBOR, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.