Understanding when aging-related changes begin in our cells
Temporal control of mitochondrial mutagenesis
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA · NIH-11134678
This work explores when harmful changes in our cells' energy factories, called mitochondria, start to contribute to aging and age-related diseases.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11134678 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
As we get older, our cells accumulate changes in their mitochondrial DNA, which are like tiny power plants inside our cells. These changes can speed up the natural aging process and contribute to conditions like cancer, muscle weakness, and brain disorders. While these changes are initially harmless, they can grow over time to cause disease. This research aims to discover if these disease-causing changes actually begin much earlier in life, long before any symptoms appear. We are using a special mouse model to turn off these changes at different times and see how they affect health later on.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is relevant for anyone interested in the biology of aging and the prevention of age-related conditions.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment options for existing conditions may not directly benefit from this basic science research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could help us understand the best time to intervene with treatments to prevent age-related diseases before they even start.
How similar studies have performed: This project uses a novel mouse model to investigate the timing of mitochondrial changes, building on existing knowledge about their role in aging.
Where this research is happening
Los Angeles, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA — Los Angeles, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: VERMULST, MARC — UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
- Study coordinator: VERMULST, MARC
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.