About the Curran Lab
Our long-term goal is to generate blueprints that allow an individual to maximize health over the course of their lifespan. Informed by genetics, we develop the capacity to predict which diets are ideal for a healthy life and which should be avoided. Moreover, we investigate the mechanistic basis of the molecules, genes, and pathways we have discovered can influence healthspan. The product of this investment is the ability to use diet as a means to circumvent genetic predisposition and prevent or reduce the severity of age-related disease. Our research has benefited from the ability to quickly test several diet-gene pairs in C. elegans, which has allowed us to transition to directed studies in murine models. Although we will continue to exploit the utility of genetics and biochemistry of the worm, we expect that our mouse and cultured human cell approaches will synergize and provide relevant information for human aging.
Recent Discoveries
Loss of flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD) impairs sperm function and male reproductive advantage in C. elegans
Chia-An Yen, Dana L Ruter, Christian D Turner, Shanshan Pang, Sean P. Curran
Redirection of SKN-1 abates the negative metabolic outcomes of a perceived pathogen infection.
James D. Nhan, Christian D. Turner, Sarah M. Anderson, Chia-An Yen, Hans M. Dalton, Hilary K. Cheesman, Dana L. Ruter, Nandhitha Uma Naresh, Cole M. Haynes, Alexander A. Soukas, Read Pukkila-Worley, and Sean P. Curran
Genetic variation in ALDH4A1 is associated with muscle health over the lifespan and across species
Osvaldo Villa*, Nicole L Stuhr*, Chia-an Yen*, Eileen M Crimmins, Thalida Em Arpawong, Sean P Curran
Bacterial diets differentially alter lifespan and healthspan trajectories in C. elegans
Nicole L. Stuhr, Sean P. Curran
Incomplete proline catabolism drives premature sperm aging
Chia-An Yen, Sean P. Curran

Contact us
Lab Phone: (213) 740-9026
Mailing Address:
Curran Lab
University of Southern California
Leonard Davis School of Gerontology
3715 McClintock Ave.
Los Angeles, CA. 90089