Understanding how genetics affects telomere length and aging
Official title: Genetic and epigenetic architecture of natural telomere length variation
Funded at Marshall University · NIH-11043312 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how certain genes affect the length of telomeres, which are important for how long our cells live and how we age, using a small plant called Arabidopsis thaliana, and the findings could help us understand aging and related health issues in people.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Marshall University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Huntington, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | August 1, 2018 |
| Project end | February 28, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $291,032 |
| NIH project number | 5R01GM127402-09 |
| Project ID | NIH-11043312 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals interested in the genetic factors influencing aging and those with age-related disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with no interest in genetic research or those not affected by age-related conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the genetic and epigenetic factors that influence telomere length, which is crucial for cellular lifespan and aging. By studying the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana, researchers aim to identify specific genes and mechanisms that regulate telomere length and their implications for age-related diseases. The study employs a combination of genetic, genomic, and biochemical techniques to uncover how variations in telomere length can affect health outcomes. Insights gained from this research could lead to a better understanding of aging and related disorders in humans.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide insights into the biological mechanisms of aging and potentially lead to new strategies for preventing age-related diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding telomere biology, but this specific approach using Arabidopsis is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Marshall University
Huntington, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shakirov, Eugene V — Marshall University
- Study coordinator: Shakirov, Eugene V
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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.