Understanding why mitochondrial DNA mutations vary across different organisms
Official title: Mechanisms of mitochondrial mutation rate variation across eukaryotes
Funded at Colorado State University · NIH-11087521 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at why some living things, like plants, have fewer changes in their mitochondrial DNA compared to humans, which can help us understand age-related diseases better and find new ways to treat them.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Colorado State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Fort Collins, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $385,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM148134-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11087521 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing age-related diseases or conditions associated with mitochondrial dysfunction.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-age-related diseases or those without mitochondrial dysfunction may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the high mutation rates in mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA), which are linked to inherited and age-related diseases. By exploring the differences in the enzymatic machinery responsible for mtDNA replication and repair, the study aims to uncover why some organisms, like plants, have lower mutation rates compared to humans. Utilizing advanced sequencing technologies, the researchers will capture and analyze rare mutations as they occur, providing insights into the mechanisms behind mtDNA mutation rates. This work could lead to a better understanding of age-related diseases and potential therapeutic strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for age-related diseases linked to mitochondrial mutations.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success in understanding mitochondrial mutations, but this approach may provide novel insights into the mechanisms of mutation rate variation.
Where this research is happening
-
Colorado State University
Fort Collins, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sloan, Daniel Benjamin — Colorado State University
- Study coordinator: Sloan, Daniel Benjamin
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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.