Using CRISPR technology to find genes that may help slow aging
Official title: Genome-Wide CRISPR Activation: A Novel Strategy for Identifying Anti-Aging Targets
Funded at Northeastern University · NIH-11080988 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how to turn on certain genes using a special tool called CRISPR to find out which ones might help us live longer and healthier lives, using tiny worms as a model, and the findings could lead to new treatments for aging-related issues that could benefit patients like you.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northeastern University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $196,400 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AG086992-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11080988 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals interested in the biological mechanisms of aging and those affected by age-related diseases.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with no interest in aging research or those who are not affected by age-related conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores how to systematically activate genes using CRISPR technology to identify those that could extend lifespan and improve health. By utilizing a model organism called C. elegans, researchers will employ a novel method that allows for the overexpression of specific genes at different times. This approach aims to uncover new genetic factors that influence aging and age-related diseases, potentially leading to breakthroughs in our understanding of longevity. Patients may benefit from insights gained through this research that could inform future therapies targeting aging.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for slowing down the aging process and improving health in older adults.
How similar studies have gone: While gene knockdown studies have shown success in identifying longevity-related genes, the systematic gene overexpression approach using CRISPR is relatively novel and untested.
Where this research is happening
-
Northeastern University
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Apfeld, Javier — Northeastern University
- Study coordinator: Apfeld, Javier
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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.