Co-Directors
- Kiana Aran, Ph.D., Associate Professor, Shu Chien-Gene Lay Department of Bioengineering, Jacobs School of Engineering and Department of Medicine, Division of Geriatrics, Gerontology & Palliative Care, School of Medicine
- Anthony J.A. Molina, Ph.D., Professor, Department of Medicine, Research Chief, Division of Geriatrics, Gerontology, and Palliative Care, Scientific Director, Stein Institute for Research on Aging and the UCSD Center for Healthy Aging
Center Statement
Aging is becoming an increasingly important focus of biomedical research. This reflects in part our aging population and its relative health, social, and economic burden. These research efforts are advancing our mechanistic understanding of the processes behind biological aging and related diseases. As a result, we're seeing a burgeoning array of behavioral and therapeutic strategies and interventions aimed at decoupling chronological age from biological aging. The translation of this knowledge into mainstream practice hinges on the development and implementation of technologies for advancing research, tracking health and biological age markers, and identifying risk factors associated with age-related diseases. Such advancements are crucial for enabling individuals, clinicians, and policymakers to implement effective interventions, thereby enhancing healthy longevity and quality of life, while alleviating pressures on healthcare systems and the broader society.
The Center’s mission will be to engineer technologies that address current and future needs in aging research, that improve clinical practices and interventions, and empower individuals to improve their longevity and health, reducing the correlation between biological and chronological age.
At the Center for Technologies for Healthy Aging, our comprehensive approach includes developing advanced biosensing technologies, both point-of-care and wearable, for real-time health monitoring. We also focus on biomedical devices and research tools to enable biologists and clinicians better understand the molecular mechanisms of aging, aiding in the development of markers for early diagnosis and prognosis, and identification of potential therapeutic targets. Leveraging machine learning technologies, we will leverage diverse patient data, from molecular to cellular levels, to predict health trajectories and develop strategies for a healthier life. This integrated approach combines technological innovation with deep biological insights to revolutionize longevity and health across the lifespan, as well as geriatric healthcare.
Beyond our focus on research and development, the Center for Technologies for Healthy Aging is dedicated to nurturing entrepreneurial efforts. Our approach to cross-sector collaboration transcends traditional limits, fostering a cooperative environment where academia and industry converge to innovate in aging care technologies. This partnership leverages the distinct strengths of each sector, streamlining the journey from discovery to market application and ensuring new technologies are integrated into healthcare systems effectively. This collaborative model is designed to ensure that advancements are not only scientifically robust but also practically viable and regulatory compliant, maximizing their benefit for the aging population.
Additionally, the Center aims to host quarterly meetings, inviting diverse stakeholders to present findings and engage with the public, gerontologists, and clinicians. This strategy aims to foster community engagement, increase scientific awareness, and garner support for aging-related research and innovations.
