Aging is a complex biological process characterized by the progressive decline of cellular and tissue function, ultimately increasing susceptibility to chronic diseases and functional impairment. At SKAN Research Trust, our ageing research program aims to unravel the molecular, cellular, and environmental determinants of healthy and pathological ageing through the integration of genomics, epigenomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, bioinformatics, and systems biology approaches.
Leveraging our expertise in hematology, stem cell biology, neurobiology, and advanced sequencing technologies, we are investigating the fundamental mechanisms that drive ageing and age-associated diseases. A major focus of our research is Clonal Hematopoiesis of Indeterminate Potential (CHIP), an age-related phenomenon in which hematopoietic stem cells acquire somatic mutations that confer a selective growth advantage, leading to the expansion of mutant blood cell clones. CHIP becomes increasingly prevalent with advancing age and has been associated with an elevated risk of hematological malignancies, cardiovascular disease, stroke, chronic inflammation, and all-cause mortality. Despite its growing clinical significance, the prevalence, genetic landscape, and health implications of CHIP remain poorly understood in the Indian population. At SKAN, we are undertaking comprehensive genomic studies to define the burden and biological consequences of CHIP-associated mutations in diverse Indian cohorts.
Another key area of investigation is the interaction between ageing stem cells and their surrounding microenvironment. Emerging evidence suggests that age-related alterations in the stem cell niche profoundly influence stem cell function, impair regenerative capacity, and promote chronic inflammation and malignant transformation. Our research seeks to understand the molecular dialogue between stem cells and their microenvironment and how these interactions contribute to tissue dysfunction, hematopoietic decline, and cancer initiation during ageing.
In parallel, we are exploring innovative strategies to rejuvenate aged stem cells and restore tissue regenerative potential. By studying the effects of therapeutic interventions, cellular signaling pathways, extracellular vesicles, and other regenerative factors, we aim to identify approaches that can reverse age-associated cellular dysfunction and promote healthy tissue maintenance and repair.
SKAN Research Trust is also leading and supporting several large-scale longitudinal cohort studies focused on ageing and age-associated disorders in India. These include population-based investigations examining cardiovascular disease, stroke, neurodegenerative disorders, healthy ageing trajectories, and other chronic diseases that disproportionately affect the ageing population. Through these multidisciplinary initiatives, we aim to generate comprehensive datasets that will enable the development of predictive biomarkers, personalized risk assessment tools, and targeted preventive strategies for the Indian population.
By integrating fundamental biology, advanced multi-omics technologies, longitudinal cohort studies, and translational research, SKAN Research Trust is committed to advancing the science of ageing and developing innovative solutions that promote healthy longevity and improve quality of life across the lifespan.
