Understanding how telomeres affect stress response and aging

Telomere uncapping epigenetically reprograms a stress response and longevity pathway

NIH-funded research Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill · NIH-11055964

This study is looking at how certain parts of our DNA, called telomeres, help our bodies handle stress and live longer, by examining how they work in tiny worms and humans, so we can better understand aging and stress resistance.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniv of North Carolina Chapel Hill NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chapel Hill, United States)
Project IDNIH-11055964 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of Interstitial Telomere Sequences (ITS tracts) in regulating stress response and longevity genes. By studying the effects of environmental stresses on telomere binding proteins in both C. elegans and humans, the research aims to uncover how these proteins influence gene expression related to aging and stress resistance. The approach involves genetic and molecular techniques to analyze how changes in telomere structure can impact cellular responses to stress and overall longevity.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include children and adults who are experiencing age-related stress or diseases linked to aging.

Not a fit: Patients with acute, non-age-related conditions or those outside the age range of 0-21 may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into aging and stress-related diseases, potentially improving health outcomes for patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding telomere biology and its implications for aging, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Chapel Hill, 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.
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.