SUMMARY
Tamir Chandra, Ph.D., studies aging and its connection to age-related conditions using a multifaceted interdisciplinary approach. His methodology encompasses mechanistic cell and molecular biology, the generation of extensive datasets through functional and cellular genomics, and the extraction of insights via bioinformatics, artificial intelligence and quantitative biology. In this applied research, Dr. Chandra investigates how to use molecular data for clinical advancements. He harnesses the capabilities of artificial intelligence and quantitative biology to achieve practical and impactful results.
Focus Areas
- Epigenetic aging and rejuvenation. Dr. Chandra's research team explores how changes in DNA methylation, with age, can be leveraged to monitor lifelong health. The research team analyzes patterns of DNA methylation alterations across the lifespan of thousands of individuals to uncover the molecular drivers behind these changes.
Dr. Chandra's research team has previously discovered that specific aging trajectories encoded in DNA methylation, known as epigenetic clocks, can be reversed through an intervention called partial reprogramming. Currently, his research team is collaborating with partners to deepen the understanding of partial reprogramming, with a particular emphasis on its effects within the human blood system.
- Cellular genetics of aging and senescence. Dr. Chandra's research team strives to uncover the genetic differences in the cellular senescence response and its effects on age-related conditions by integrating molecular techniques with population genetics. By investigating how genetic variation affects the senescence process and its connections to age-associated traits, his research team seeks to identify specific conditions closely related to the activation of senescence.
These discoveries are expected to deepen the understanding of genetic factors in cellular aging and guide the development of targeted therapies. Moving forward, Dr. Chandra's research team plans to extend its research to explore additional mechanisms involved in cellular aging beyond senescence.
- Somatic mosaicism in aging and hematology. Dr. Chandra is investigating a phenomenon known as somatic mosaicism, with a particular focus on age-related clonal hematopoiesis in the blood. As individuals age, certain blood cells can accumulate genetic mutations that lead to the proliferation of these cells, which may contribute to aging and various age-related conditions.
To explore this, his research team analyzes patient blood samples using advanced genomic sequencing and quantitative biology techniques. The goal is to understand how these genetic changes impact aging and the development of age-related health conditions. By uncovering these connections, Dr. Chandra's research team strives to enhance the understanding of aging and contribute to the development of strategies to address related conditions.
- Artificial intelligence in clinical practice. Dr. Chandra's research team has embarked on a new initiative to collaborate with clinicians and primary care professionals to address practical challenges in clinical practice. This effort focuses on developing solutions for issues such as patient stratification and enhancing models for predicting health outcomes. Although this line of research is still in its early stages, his research team is enthusiastic about the potential to make meaningful contributions to clinical care.
Significance to Patient Care
Dr. Chandra's research team examines different features of aging to improve patient care. His research team studies epigenetic aging by analyzing DNA methylation patterns to monitor health and explore interventions like partial reprogramming. Dr. Chandra's research team studies cellular genetics and focuses on understanding genetic variations in aging and age-related conditions to develop targeted therapies. Additionally, his research team examines somatic mosaicism and age-related clonal hematopoiesis in blood to uncover how acquired genetic changes affect aging and related conditions. Recently, Dr. Chandra's research team has begun collaborating with clinicians to develop practical solutions for patient stratification and outcome prediction, striving to improve clinical practice and patient management.
Professional Highlights
- Robert and Arlene Kogod Center on Aging, Mayo Clinic:
- Member, Executive Committee, 2024-present.
- Theme leader, Artificial Intelligence and Quantitative Biology, 2024-present.
- Member, editorial board, Aging Cell, 2021-present.