Understanding how the brain's hypothalamus affects aging
The Hypothalamic Basis of Aging
This project explores how a part of your brain called the hypothalamus controls aging and age-related brain conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Albert Einstein College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Bronx, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11103379 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our bodies have a control center in the brain called the hypothalamus, which manages hormones and metabolism, both key to how we age. This work looks into how the hypothalamus influences the aging process, aiming to uncover its natural anti-aging mechanisms. We are particularly interested in tiny packages called extracellular vesicles from the hypothalamus, which have shown promise in protecting brain cells from aging. The goal is to find new ways to protect against brain decline and diseases linked to aging.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not currently involve patient participation, but future studies based on this work may seek individuals experiencing age-related neurodegeneration.
Not a fit: Patients not experiencing age-related neurodegeneration or those with conditions unrelated to hypothalamic function may not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new treatments that slow down or reverse age-related brain decline and neurodegenerative diseases.
How similar studies have performed: The principal investigator's lab has previously developed a 'hypothalamic control of aging' paradigm and an anti-aging model using stem cells, suggesting a foundation for this approach.
Where this research is happening
Bronx, United States
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine — Bronx, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cai, Dongsheng — Albert Einstein College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Cai, Dongsheng
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 below.