NIH-funded research R21 grant

How aging affects muscle metabolism in a 3D muscle tissue model

Official title: Metabolic response to contraction in a 3D engineered muscle tissue model of aging

Funded at University of Washington · NIH-10948409 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study looks at how getting older affects how our muscles work when we exercise, using a special model to mimic muscle contractions, and it aims to help us understand how to keep our muscles healthy as we age.

More Aging research and trials

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Washington
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Seattle, United States)
Project startSeptember 1, 2024
Project endAugust 31, 2026
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$485,375
NIH project number1R21AG088504-01
Project IDNIH-10948409 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are older adults experiencing muscle weakness or frailty.

Less likely to help

Patients who are younger and do not have any muscle-related issues may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates how aging impacts the metabolic response of muscle tissue during contraction using a three-dimensional engineered muscle model. By simulating different types of muscle contractions, the study aims to understand the changes in mitochondrial function and fatty acid oxidation in aged muscle compared to younger muscle. The research employs advanced techniques to analyze how exercise influences muscle metabolism and may lead to insights on preventing age-related muscle decline.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for improving muscle health and function in older adults.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding muscle metabolism through similar experimental approaches, indicating potential for success in this study.

Where this research is happening

  • University of Washington
    Seattle, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Campbell, Matthew D — University of Washington
  • Study coordinator: Campbell, Matthew D

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.