Using machine learning to assess frailty in genetically diverse mice

Machine learning based frailty index for the genetically diverse mice

NIH-funded research Jackson Laboratory · NIH-11143328

This study is working on a new way to measure frailty in aging mice using videos and smart computer technology, which will make it easier and more reliable to understand health issues related to aging.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionJackson Laboratory NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Bar Harbor, United States)
Project IDNIH-11143328 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing an automated visual frailty index (vFI) using machine learning techniques applied to video data of genetically diverse mice. By quantifying frailty, which indicates vulnerability to health issues, the study aims to enhance the scalability and reliability of frailty assessments in aging research. The project will involve long-term monitoring of mice to improve the accuracy of the vFI, making it easier to implement and reducing the need for manual scoring by trained individuals. Ultimately, this approach seeks to provide a more efficient tool for studying aging and frailty in animal models.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research would be those interested in the biological mechanisms of aging and frailty, particularly in animal models.

Not a fit: Patients who are not involved in animal research or those seeking direct human health interventions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved methods for assessing frailty in aging populations, potentially informing better health interventions.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has successfully utilized machine learning approaches in similar contexts, indicating a promising avenue for this type of investigation.

Where this research is happening

Bar Harbor, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.