Understanding how social factors affect aging using animal models

Research Network on Animal Models to Understand Social Dimensions of Aging

NIH-funded research University of Minnesota · NIH-10976514

This study looks at how things like money and support from friends and family can affect health as we get older, using animal models to understand the science behind it, and it aims to find ways to help older people stay healthier.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Minnesota NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Minneapolis, United States)
Project IDNIH-10976514 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of social factors, such as socioeconomic status and social support, on aging and health outcomes. By utilizing animal models, the study aims to uncover the biological mechanisms that link social experiences to diseases associated with aging. The research network supports various initiatives, including fellowships and pilot grants, to foster collaboration and innovation in this field. Through controlled experiments, the project seeks to provide insights that could ultimately improve health outcomes for aging populations.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults experiencing social isolation or low socioeconomic status, as well as those at risk for aging-related diseases.

Not a fit: Patients who are younger and do not have any social or economic challenges may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and interventions for diseases related to aging, potentially improving the quality of life for older adults.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using animal models to explore social determinants of health, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Minneapolis, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions aging associated diseaseaging associated disordersaging related diseaseaging related disordersAlzheimer disease dementia
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.