Understanding how telomeres and telomerase work in cells
Official title: Structure and Dynamics of Telomeres and Telomerase
Funded at University of California Santa Cruz · NIH-10842861 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the protective ends of our chromosomes, called telomeres, and an enzyme that helps keep them healthy, might play a role in aging and diseases like cancer, with the hope of finding new ways to prevent and treat these conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Santa Cruz NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Santa Cruz, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $553,579 |
| NIH project number | 1R35GM153235-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10842861 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with age-related diseases, certain cancers, or genetic syndromes linked to telomere dysfunction.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to telomere biology or those who are not experiencing age-related cellular issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the structures and functions of telomeres, which are protective caps at the ends of chromosomes, and the enzyme telomerase that maintains their length. By using advanced biochemical and biophysical methods, the research aims to uncover how telomeres contribute to cellular aging and the development of diseases like cancer. The study will explore the molecular mechanisms behind telomere dysfunction and its impact on cell health, potentially leading to new insights into disease prevention and treatment.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating age-related diseases and cancers by targeting telomere maintenance.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding telomere biology and its implications for health, indicating that this area of study is both relevant and potentially impactful.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Stone, Michael D — University of California Santa Cruz
- Study coordinator: Stone, Michael D
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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.