Biomarkers of aging

The global population is aging at an unprecedented rate, leading to a surge in neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer’s and vascular dementia. The scarcity of effective interventions for these diseases is partly due to the lack of accurate predictive models that can enhance drug development. Learn more at Biomarkers of aging from the Loughborough University.

Key facts of the  Biomarkers of aging Biomarkers of aging programme offered by  Loughborough University Loughborough University

The challenge is compounded by the fact that a mere 2% of pharmaceuticals successfully penetrate the central nervous system (CNS).

In response to this critical need, our goal is to pioneer a novel blood-brain barrier (BBB) model that accurately represents the aged BBB. The creation of sophisticated in vitro cell models of aging offers a promising avenue to dissect the complexities of this phenomenon, providing a meticulously controlled setting to investigate the cellular and molecular transformations that accompany aging.

This model will be constructed using human cells arranged in a complex three-dimensional tissue-like structure. Our analytical focus will be on the transference of drugs across the BBB, alongside intervention studies aimed at rejuvenating the BBB to a state reminiscent of its youthful functionality. You will become part of a team that is part of the Wellcome Leap project “Dynamic Resilience” focusing on predicting frailty in humans.

Prof. Alexandra Stolzing is an internationally recognised expert in the ageing field and has worked within the University but also in start-ups and has experience in translating research. Dr. Sun Tao is an expert in cell models, quantitative prediction models and bioreactors.

• To obtain additional information about the program, we kindly suggest that you visit the programme website, where you can find further details and relevant resources.