How aging affects muscle mass and its regulation
Myonuclear Epigenetics of Skeletal Muscle Mass Regulation with Age
This study looks at how our muscles get smaller as we age and what factors, like changes in our DNA, affect this process, using special mice to help understand these changes better, with the hope of finding ways to help older adults keep their muscle strength and health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Arkansas at Fayetteville NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Fayetteville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10672356 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how skeletal muscle mass declines with age and the mechanisms that influence this process. It focuses on the role of epigenetics, particularly DNA methylation, in regulating muscle mass and the ability to adapt to physical stressors like exercise. By using a genetically modified mouse model, researchers aim to isolate myonuclei from skeletal muscle to gain insights into how these changes occur over time. The findings could lead to new strategies for enhancing muscle mass and function in older adults.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults over the age of 21 who are experiencing age-related muscle loss or are interested in enhancing their muscle health.
Not a fit: Patients who are under 21 years old or those with acute muscle injuries may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to effective interventions that help maintain muscle mass and function in aging individuals, improving their quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the role of epigenetics in muscle regulation, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Fayetteville, United States
- University of Arkansas at Fayetteville — Fayetteville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Murach, Kevin — University of Arkansas at Fayetteville
- Study coordinator: Murach, Kevin
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.