Decipher the Cell Regulatory Network of Mammalian Aging at the Scale of the Whole Organism
Aging is a universal process involving many changes across our organs and cell types, yet it remains unclear which ones actively drive aging. Dr. Cao’s project develops new technologies to measure changes in individual cells throughout the entire lifespan. By analyzing tens of millions of cells from different tissues, he aims to pinpoint the most vulnerable cell types and see how their shifts might accelerate aging elsewhere in the body. He will also investigate whether the immune system spurs aging or just follows along. This work will help clarify how cells contribute to aging, providing a roadmap for creating interventions that support healthier aging and improve overall quality of life.
