Source: Texas A&M University
The Dog Aging Project is entering its next five-year phase with approximately $29 million in funding from the National Institutes of Health, including $6.1 million for its first year. Launched in 2018, the nationwide study follows nearly 55,000 dogs to better understand the genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors influencing healthy aging.
Co-directed by researchers at Texas A&M University and Tufts University, the project will expand investigations into canine genetics, nutrition, cognitive decline, physical activity, and environmental exposures. Researchers will collect additional biological samples, monitor activity, and examine drinking water and air quality to identify factors associated with longevity.
The project will also study exceptionally long-lived dogs to uncover characteristics that may protect against age-related diseases. Findings could help veterinarians develop individualized preventive care strategies involving nutrition, exercise, screening, and monitoring. Because dogs share human environments and experience similar age-related conditions, researchers hope their discoveries will ultimately improve longevity and health for both species.
Read the full story HERE: https://vetmed.tamu.edu/news/press-releases/dog-aging-project-nih-funding/