Support for basic gerontological research in the USA

Support for research in basic gerontology in the United States of America is briefly described. The support mechanisms, how to apply for a grant, and priority areas of research are outlined, and recent progress in a few of these priority areas is discussed. In general, government support for biogerontology research has been generous, and as a result considerable progress has been made in understanding the molecular mechanisms of aging in animal model systems. Translation of these findings to humans, and development of interventions to promote healthy aging in humans remain an unfulfilled priority, but new knowledge and development of better technologies and model systems suggest an optimistic future.