Understanding how telomere length affects aging and diseases

Genomic Basis of Telomere Length Regulation and Consequences for Complex Traits

NIH-funded research Vanderbilt University Medical Center · NIH-11170170

This study looks at how the length of telomeres, which are protective caps on our DNA, affects aging and diseases like Alzheimer's and COPD, helping us understand how this information could lead to better, personalized health care for patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVanderbilt University Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Nashville, United States)
Project IDNIH-11170170 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of telomere length in cellular aging and its impact on various age-related diseases, including Alzheimer's disease and COPD. By analyzing genetic factors and environmental influences on telomere length, the study aims to identify potential biomarkers for aging and related health conditions. Patients may benefit from insights into how their telomere length could influence their health and risk for certain diseases, leading to more personalized treatment approaches.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals experiencing age-related diseases or those interested in understanding their genetic predisposition to such conditions.

Not a fit: Patients with no interest in genetic factors related to aging or those not affected by age-related diseases may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide valuable information for predicting and managing age-related diseases based on telomere length.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the relationship between telomere length and various diseases, indicating that this approach has potential for significant findings.

Where this research is happening

Nashville, 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 Alzheimer disease dementiaAlzheimer syndromeAlzheimer's Disease
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.