Understanding how persistent DNA damage affects the immune response in aging
Official title: A beneficial persistent DNA damage-induced immune response in aging
Funded at University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh · NIH-11175787 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how our immune system reacts to ongoing DNA damage, especially as we age or if we have certain blood disorders, and it focuses on a protein called NLRP12 that might help improve blood stem cells; the goal is to find ways to boost health in older adults and those with these conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project start | September 17, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $709,654 |
| NIH project number | 1R56HL169348-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11175787 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include older adults and individuals with conditions related to DNA repair deficiencies or blood disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are younger and do not have any issues related to DNA repair or blood disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the immune responses triggered by persistent DNA damage, particularly in the context of aging and diseases related to DNA repair deficiencies. The study focuses on a specific protein, NLRP12, which is believed to enhance the function of blood-forming stem cells when activated by persistent DNA damage. By exploring the mechanisms behind this immune response, the research aims to uncover how these processes can be harnessed to improve health outcomes in older adults and those with certain blood disorders. The approach includes both animal models and human samples to validate findings and understand their implications.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies that enhance immune function and improve health in aging populations.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding immune responses related to DNA damage, but this specific approach focusing on persistent damage and NLRP12 is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Du, Wei — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Du, Wei
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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.