Understanding how glucagon affects aging and healthspan
Official title: Investigating the Role of Hepatic Glucagon Receptor Signaling in Healthspan and Aging
Funded at University of Arizona · NIH-11181555 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a hormone called glucagon affects aging and overall health, especially for people dealing with obesity and type 2 diabetes, by testing it in mice to see if it can help us find new ways to improve health as we get older.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Arizona NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Tucson, United States) |
| Project start | September 15, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $548,858 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AG079924-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11181555 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are experiencing obesity or type 2 diabetes and are interested in interventions that may enhance their healthspan.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not affected by obesity or type 2 diabetes may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of glucagon receptor signaling in the aging process and healthspan, particularly in the context of obesity and type 2 diabetes. It explores how glucagon, a hormone that counteracts insulin, may influence lifespan and healthspan through its effects on cellular signaling pathways. The study involves examining the impact of glucagon receptor deletion in mice and how it relates to calorie restriction and aging. By understanding these mechanisms, the research aims to identify potential therapeutic targets for improving healthspan in humans.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that extend healthspan and improve quality of life for individuals with obesity and type 2 diabetes.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results regarding the role of glucagon in metabolic health, suggesting that this approach may yield significant insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Arizona
Tucson, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Stern, Jennifer Helene — University of Arizona
- Study coordinator: Stern, Jennifer Helene
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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.