Project Portugal 2030

Summary

The DecodAge project endeavors to untangle the intricate relationship between tissue-specific inflammation and accelerated aging, with a focal point on investigating CD74 as a promising biomarker for the early detection of inflammatory diseases. Employing a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach, the DecodAge aspires to propel scientific understanding, advance strategies in preventive medicine, and contribute to the evolution of personalized and predictive healthcare solutions. Thus, DecodAge's main objectives include: 1. Unraveling the potential role of Cd74 (and network pathway) in driving the emergence of inflammatory phenotypes and accelerating biological aging in mouse primary cells. 2. Investigating whether systemic Cd74 inhibition in mice can decelerate alterations in tissue cellular composition and biological age, consequently extending both healthspan and lifespan metrics. 3. Validating CD74 as a potential biomarker for chronic diseases, utilizing chronic kidney disease patient samples as a pilot study. Through these objectives, DecodAge aims to make significant strides in deciphering the mechanisms connecting inflammation, aging, and chronic diseases, ultimately contributing to advancements in fundamental scientific knowledge and paving the way to clinical translation.