What inspired you to pursue aging research?
My research interest lies at the intersection of basic biology, where nature's intricacies captivate me, and translational science, where I hope to bring tangible health benefits through my findings. While my postdoctoral training began in basic cardiovascular science, I quickly realized that the risk of cardiovascular disease increases markedly with age. This piqued my curiosity, leading me to wonder why the genes that orchestrate the seamless development of an organism from fertilization to its youthful zenith somehow lose their efficacy to maintain health as the organism ages.
My exploration led me to the writings of evolutionary biologist George Williams. He theorized that some genes, critical for our youthful health and vitality, might actually contribute to aging, given that natural selection is ineffective in weeding out genes causing late-life problems. This resonated with my studies on CaMKII. While this gene is indispensable for cardiac performance during youth, its overactivity contributes to cardiovascular diseases. Studying this dual nature of CaMKII opens the door to aging research for me. As I delve deeper into aging, my research extends beyond CaMKII, seeking broader mechanisms that influence longevity and health.
In your view, what does AFAR mean to the field, and what does it mean, for you, to receive an AFAR grant now?
AFAR is a cornerstone in aging research, supporting emerging scientists and addressing the pressing medical needs of an aging society. Since its founding, it has continuously fueled innovative studies on the biology of aging. Transitioning my research focus from cardiovascular science to aging, the AFAR grant is a pivotal endorsement. It provides the essential resources to lay the groundwork, enabling the creation of preliminary data and publications for future grant applications in this field.
What is exciting about your research’s potential impact?
My research aims to uncover a new molecular mechanism behind chronic inflammation and sarcopenia, a condition of age-related muscle decline. Specifically, we're looking at the dual nature of CaMKII: while it has benefits, it can also have negative effects as we age. Our goal is to harness the positives and reduce the negatives, potentially leading to treatments that improve the function of aging muscles.
How would you describe your research to a non-scientist?
My team uses fruit flies and mice to study the basic causes of age-related conditions. Think of genes as individual chapters in the story of life. Some chapters (genes) are very similar from one species to another, including in humans. By changing certain chapters in these animals, we can see how it affects their aging process, such as becoming frail. Our ultimate goal is to understand this story better, hoping it can help us discover new ways to age healthily in humans.
