| The Laboratory of Experimental Gerontology conducts basic research in experimental models aimed at defining the basis of age-related functional impairment, and developing interventions that retard aging processes. One of the major projects is a longitudinal study of the potential benefits of diet restriction on aging in nonhuman primates. A second major focus involves in vivo rodent, fly and nematode models, and in vitro cellular models, to identify protective mechanisms engaged by calorie restriction. A third major research program evaluates various aging interventions (pharmaceuticals, hormones, dietary supplements, genes) in mouse models to assess effects on lifespan, pathology, and various functional capacities at older ages. Significant effort in LEG is also directed at characterizing the nature and severity of cognitive decline associated with aging in rodents and nonhuman primates. These studies enable investigations on the basis of decline, including epigenetic contributions to altered gene transcription, and the development of potential interventions aimed at promoting optimally healthy cognitive aging. |
