Understanding how telomeres maintain their length and function
Official title: Molecular Mechanisms of Telomere Length Homeostasis
Funded at University of California-Irvine · NIH-11046566 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain proteins help keep the ends of our DNA, called telomeres, healthy and the right length, which is important for preventing aging too soon and reducing the risk of cancer, and it could lead to new ways to tackle age-related illnesses.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California-Irvine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Irvine, United States) |
| Project start | April 13, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $392,500 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM149572-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11046566 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals experiencing age-related disorders or those with a family history of cancer linked to telomere dysfunction.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to telomere length or function may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the molecular mechanisms that regulate telomere length, which is crucial for maintaining genome integrity and preventing premature aging or cancer. By studying the shelterin complex and its interactions with telomerase, the research aims to uncover how these components work together to control telomere extension and stability. The approach involves detailed biochemical and structural analyses to gain insights at the atomic level, which could lead to new strategies for addressing age-related diseases and cancer.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that enhance telomere function, potentially improving health outcomes for patients with aging-related diseases and cancers.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding telomere biology, indicating that this area of study has the potential for significant breakthroughs.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California-Irvine
Irvine, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Qiao, Feng — University of California-Irvine
- Study coordinator: Qiao, Feng
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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.