Moments in TIME: Shaping the Future of Aging – Alvira Tyagi
Alvira Tyagi is a force for change in the world of aging biology, combining her passions for medicine, research, and policy to tackle age-related challenges head-on. Her journey is a testament to a clear vision: creating a future where scientific advancements don’t just stay in the lab but actively transform healthcare for older adults.
As a TIME Fellow grantee, Alvira is researching the therapeutic potential of GDF11, aiming to reverse cognitive decline in neurodegenerative diseases. But her dedication doesn’t stop at the bench—she’s also advocating for healthcare policies that expand access to aging research and resources. With every step, Alvira is working to bridge the gap between innovative science and compassionate care, paving the way for a world where we can all age with health and dignity.
Here’s what Alvira shared with us about her work, her journey, and her hopes for the future:
“Beyond mentorship and funding, the TIME Fellowship provided access to a community that fosters interdisciplinary collaboration and pushes the boundaries of what’s possible in the field. It offered a broader lens into aging biology and helped me develop a clearer vision of how I want to impact the future of aging science. If you’re looking for a fellowship that offers real-world impact and the chance to be part of a forward-thinking community, TIME is an exceptional opportunity.”
Courtney: Alvira, it’s great to have you share your work with us. Can you start by telling us what your research you were awarded the TIME grant focuses on?
Alvira: I’m investigating the regulatory role of GDF11 in myelination and neural activity, processes that are often disrupted in aging and neurodegenerative diseases. By studying GDF11, we aim to identify its therapeutic potential in restoring neural function in age-related conditions.
Courtney: That sounds promising. Why is this work so important, and what do you hope it will achieve in the field of aging biology?
Alvira: Our research delves into the potential of GDF11 as a therapeutic target for age-related diseases. By uncovering how it regulates key aging processes, we hope to pave the way for new treatments that could slow or even reverse cognitive decline in conditions like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Ultimately, we aim to open new paths for healthier aging.
Courtney: You’ve clearly been making great strides. What’s a recent milestone in your research that you’re particularly proud of?
Alvira: A recent milestone I’m proud of is co-presenting our project at the Society for Neuroscience conference in Chicago. It was an incredible opportunity to connect with scientists from diverse backgrounds in neuroscience and share our findings with a broader audience. The feedback was invaluable, and now we’re working on writing our manuscript to eventually publish this work.
Courtney: It sounds like you’re making a meaningful impact. How do you see your work contributing to the field of aging biology in the long run?
Alvira: I hope my research on GDF11 can advance treatments that promote healthy aging across the lifespan. By exploring how GDF11 can enhance remyelination, especially in conditions like multiple sclerosis, I’m excited about the potential to slow or even reverse age-related degeneration in the nervous system. This could allow people to live more active and fulfilling lives as they age.
Courtney: You’ve mentioned some long-term goals. What’s your vision for your work in this field?
Alvira: My long-term vision is to bridge clinical research with direct patient care, especially for elderly populations. I’m passionate about understanding the biological mechanisms of aging and applying that knowledge in clinical settings to deliver personalized and thoughtful patient care.
Courtney: That’s a wonderful vision. What first inspired you to pursue a career in aging biology?
Alvira: I was inspired to pursue a career in aging biology after witnessing my grandparents gradually age in India. As they grew older, I saw firsthand the challenges they faced, especially in a setting where access to healthcare was limited. Their resilience, despite these struggles, sparked my interest in understanding the biology of aging. I became driven to explore how we might slow down age-related decline to improve the quality of life for older adults, especially those in underserved communities.
Courtney: You’re the first in your family to pursue a path in medicine and research. What challenges have you faced, and how did the TIME Fellowship help you navigate them?
Alvira: Without a clear roadmap, it wasn’t always easy. But the TIME Fellowship opened several doors by providing resources, mentorship, and a community of like-minded peers. Through this fellowship, I was able to engage in aging research and policy work, sharpening my problem-solving skills and gaining valuable experience collaborating with peers. I felt supported throughout every challenge I encountered along the way, which has only strengthened my determination to contribute meaningfully to the field, something I will carry with me for the rest of my life.
Courtney: In addition to your research, you’ve been very active in policy advocacy, including serving as the Health Policy Chair for the Institute of Politics and collaborating with the Alliance for Longevity Initiatives. Can you share more about these roles and how they align with your goals in aging biology?
Alvira: My work in policy advocacy has been an incredibly rewarding extension of my interests in aging biology and healthcare. As the head of the Health Policy team at the Harvard Institute of Politics, I have been involved in initiatives ranging from addressing the opioid epidemic in California to improving food accessibility in Northeast food deserts. Most recently, I spearheaded a policy commission with the National Women’s Health Network, focusing on the social determinants of health affecting elderly women. Our team completed a presentation and policy brief advocating for increased menopause education in medical schools and the passage of the Menopause Research and Equity Act of 2023. Through this experience, I have seen how impactful it is to inspire a new generation of advocates who are committed to addressing the healthcare needs of aging populations
Courtney: It sounds like the fellowship has been a significant part of your journey. Why should someone consider applying for the TIME Fellowship?
Alvira: Beyond mentorship and funding, the TIME Fellowship provided access to a community that fosters interdisciplinary collaboration and pushes the boundaries of what’s possible in the field. It offered a broader lens into aging biology and helped me develop a clearer vision of how I want to impact the future of aging science. If you’re looking for a fellowship that offers real-world impact and the chance to be part of a forward-thinking community, TIME is an exceptional opportunity.
