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Developing a Comparative Single-Cell Spatial Transciptomic Atlas of Brain Aging in Non-Human and Humans

Award Number: K18AG095816
ORGANIZATION: NATIONAL INSTITUTE ON AGING
OPDIV: NIH
AWARD CLASS: DISCRETIONARY
AWARD ACTIVITY TYPE: TRAINING/TRAINEESHIP
PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE START DATE: 08/15/2025
PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE END DATE: 05/31/2027

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Developing a Comparative Single-Cell Spatial Transciptomic Atlas of Brain Aging in Non-Human and Humans - Project Summary Aging leads to an increased risk of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's that present significant public health challenges worldwide. Despite extensive research, the molecular mechanisms driving brain aging remain poorly understood, especially at the single-cell level within critical regions like the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus. Due to their close genetic and physiological similarities to humans, including comparable brain structure and aging processes, non-human primates (NHPs) like rhesus macaques are invaluable models for studying the intricacies of brain aging. This project aims to develop the first lifespan-matched, comparative single-cell spatial transcriptomic atlas of the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus in humans and rhesus macaques. Using the cutting-edge CosMx Spatial Molecular Imager (SMI), we will generate high-resolution, single-cell gene expression profiles across different life stages—young, adult, and aged—in both species. Our central hypothesis is that aging induces specific, identifiable spatial and cell-type-specific gene expression alterations conserved between humans and rhesus macaques, contributing to neurodegeneration. Under the guidance of expert mentors, the candidate will receive comprehensive training in NHP aging models, advanced spatial transcriptomics using the CosMx SMI platform, human neuropathology, data interpretation, and cross-species comparative analysis using integrative bioinformatics, leading to a deep understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying brain aging. This project will fill a critical gap in our understanding of brain aging by providing the first lifespan-matched, comparative single-cell spatial transcriptomic atlases of key brain regions in humans and rhesus macaques. We anticipate that our findings will (i) advance our knowledge of age-associated molecular changes and (ii) identify conserved pathways contributing to neurodegeneration. Ultimately, this research has the potential to inform the development of therapeutic targets to mitigate neurodegenerative diseases, significantly impacting aging research and public health.


Issue Date FY	Funding FY	Legal Entity Name	Legal Entity Address	Legal Entity City	Legal Entity State	Legal Entity Zip Code	Legal Entity COUNTY	Legal Entity COUNTRY	Assistance Listing	Award Code	Budget Year	Action Date	Action Type	Action Amount

Issue Date FY: 2026 ( Subtotal = $209,869 )
2026	2026	THE ADMINISTRATORS OF TULANE EDUCATIONAL FUND	6823 SAINT CHARLES AVE	NEW ORLEANS	LA	70118	ORLEANS	USA	Aging Research	000	2	5/12/2026	NON-COMPETING CONTINUATION	$209,869
														Subtotal = $209,869

Issue Date FY: 2025 ( Subtotal = $209,148 )
2025	2025	THE ADMINISTRATORS OF TULANE EDUCATIONAL FUND	6823 SAINT CHARLES AVE	NEW ORLEANS	LA	70118	ORLEANS	USA	Aging Research	000	1	8/8/2025	NEW	$209,148
														Subtotal = $209,148

Grand Total All Awards = $419,017

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Developing a Comparative Single-Cell Spatial Transciptomic Atlas of Brain Aging in Non-Human and Humans

Award Number: K18AG095816

ORGANIZATION: NATIONAL INSTITUTE ON AGING

OPDIV: NIH

AWARD CLASS: DISCRETIONARY

AWARD ACTIVITY TYPE: TRAINING/TRAINEESHIP

PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE START DATE: 08/15/2025

PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE END DATE: 05/31/2027

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