Live-cell imaging of biological age
About This Grant
Abstract Epigenetic clocks based on DNA methylation have revolutionized aging research, yet they offer only static snapshots of a highly dynamic process. To overcome this limitation, we will develop novel live-cell imaging tools to monitor biological age in real time based on age-associated DNA methylation changes. Two classes of genetically encoded fluorescent sensors will be engineered: (1) a “ticking” global methylation epigenetic clock (T-EpiC) that continuously visualizes intranuclear 5mC patterns, and (2) an “alarm” locus-specific epigenetic clock (A-EpiC) that develops fluorescence only when methylation occurs at specific aging-associated loci. The corresponding specific aims are to develop a method for quantifying the biological age of live cells by visualizing intranuclear DNA methylation patterns and to develop a turn-on fluorescent sensor that reports DNA methylation at specific aging-associated loci in live cells. By integrating real-time imaging with machine learning-based pattern recognition, we will quantify aging trajectories and detect interventions that modulate the biological age of cells. The novel tools will be validated in primary fibroblasts and induced pluripotent stem cells under various aging and rejuvenation conditions. Our approach addresses critical gaps in the field by enabling tracking of epigenetic aging in living cells—an advance that opens unprecedented possibilities for identifying rapid responses to anti-aging interventions, elucidating heterogeneity within cell populations, and studying the reversibility of aging processes. Ultimately, these technologies have the potential to transform our understanding of aging and accelerate the development of therapies for age-related diseases.
Grant Summary
Live-cell imaging of biological age is a NIA - National Institute on Aging grant providing up to $473K for university, nonprofit, healthcare org. Applications are due 2028-07-31 (open). Check eligibility and apply with FindGrants.
Not quite the right fit?
Search 9,000+ open grants, or get matches ranked for your organization — free.
Focus Areas
Eligibility
How to Apply
Up to $473K
2028-07-31
- 1Confirm your organization is eligible for Live-cell imaging of biological age from NIA - National Institute on Aging, checking organization type, location, and any population or project requirements.
- 2Gather the required documents and information, including your organization details, project plan, and budget figures.
- 3Draft your application narrative and budget addressing the funder's priorities and review criteria. FindGrants can draft each section for you to review and edit.
- 4Review every section against the requirements checklist, then export a submission-ready application pack and submit it to NIA - National Institute on Aging before the deadline.
Don't want to draft it yourself?
We'll draft the complete application against NIA - National Institute on Aging's requirements, run a quality review, and email you a submission-ready PDF plus an editable Word doc within 5 business days. Most orders deliver in 24-48 hours. Flat $399, any grant size.
AI Requirement Analysis
Detailed requirements not yet analyzed
Have the NOFO? Paste it below for AI-powered requirement analysis.
Live-cell imaging of biological age: Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for the Live-cell imaging of biological age?
Live-cell imaging of biological age is offered by NIA - National Institute on Aging and is generally open to university, nonprofit, healthcare org. It is open to organizations nationwide unless the funder specifies otherwise. Review the specific eligibility terms before applying, since funders set their own requirements around organization type, location, and the population or project being served.
How much funding does the Live-cell imaging of biological age provide?
Live-cell imaging of biological age provides up to $473K per award from NIA - National Institute on Aging. Actual award sizes depend on the scope of your project, available program funds, and the number of applicants, so build a budget that reflects realistic, allowable costs rather than the maximum figure.
When is the Live-cell imaging of biological age deadline?
Applications for Live-cell imaging of biological age are due 2028-07-31 (open). Because deadlines can change, verify the date with the funder, NIA - National Institute on Aging, and give yourself enough time to prepare a complete, competitive application before the close date.
How do you apply for the Live-cell imaging of biological age?
To apply for Live-cell imaging of biological age, confirm your eligibility, gather the required documents, and prepare a narrative and budget that address the funder's priorities. FindGrants guides you step by step and can draft each section, then exports a submission-ready application pack for this grant from NIA - National Institute on Aging.