Understanding how mitochondrial mutations affect aging
Official title: Temporal control of mitochondrial mutagenesis
Funded at University of Southern California · NIH-10890670 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how changes in tiny parts of our cells, called mitochondrial DNA, might affect aging and diseases like cancer and brain disorders, using special mice to see when these changes start to cause problems, which could help us find better ways to treat these issues in the future.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Southern California NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | September 30, 2022 |
| Project end | June 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $501,386 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AG075130-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10890670 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include individuals experiencing age-related health issues or those with a family history of mitochondrial diseases.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with acute conditions unrelated to aging or mitochondrial dysfunction may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of mitochondrial DNA mutations in the aging process and age-related diseases. By using a specialized mouse model, researchers can control when these mutations occur and observe their effects over time. The goal is to identify when these mutations begin to contribute to diseases like cancer and neurodegeneration, which could lead to better timing for potential treatments aimed at preventing these conditions. Patients may benefit from insights that could inform future therapies targeting aging.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing age-related diseases by targeting mitochondrial mutations early in life.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding mitochondrial mutations and their role in aging, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Vermulst, Marc — University of Southern California
- Study coordinator: Vermulst, Marc
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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.