Understanding how glial cells affect aging
Official title: Glia in Aging
Funded at University of Miami School of Medicine · NIH-11173844 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how special brain cells called glial cells help manage stress as we age, using tiny worms and mice to find out how they might influence our lifespan and health, with the hope of discovering new ways to help everyone age more healthily.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Miami School of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Coral Gables, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $191,875 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AG087451-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11173844 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 65 and older who are interested in the biological processes of aging.
✕Less likely to help
Patients under the age of 65 or those without age-related health concerns may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of glial cells in the aging process, particularly how they communicate with other cells to manage stress responses. By studying the model organism C. elegans and analyzing gene expression in mice and humans, the researchers aim to uncover the mechanisms by which glial cells influence aging. The project focuses on a specific channel, clh-1, which has been found to extend lifespan and enhance stress resistance when knocked out. This work could lead to new strategies for promoting healthier aging.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new interventions that promote healthier aging and reduce age-related diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Other studies have shown promising results in understanding the role of glial cells in aging, suggesting that this approach could yield significant insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Miami School of Medicine
Coral Gables, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bianchi, Laura — University of Miami School of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Bianchi, Laura
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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.