How aging and muscle activity affect muscle healing

The opposing effects of matrix aging and muscle activity on extracellular vesicle promotion of muscle regeneration

NIH-funded research Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital · NIH-11169740

This study is looking at how getting older and how our muscles work can affect the way muscle stem cells help heal injuries, with the goal of finding better ways to help older adults recover their muscle strength and health.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionSpaulding Rehabilitation Hospital NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Charlestown, United States)
Project IDNIH-11169740 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how the aging process and muscle activity influence the ability of muscle stem cells to promote muscle regeneration after injury. It focuses on understanding the changes in the extracellular matrix that occur with age and how these changes affect the healing response of aged muscle. By examining the biophysical properties of the muscle environment, the study aims to identify ways to enhance muscle recovery in older adults. Patients may be involved in assessments that explore their muscle health and recovery capabilities.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults experiencing muscle injuries or those with age-related muscle degeneration.

Not a fit: Patients who are younger and do not have any muscle injuries or age-related muscle issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for muscle injuries in older adults, enhancing their recovery and overall quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of the extracellular matrix in muscle regeneration, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Charlestown, United States

Researchers

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 below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 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.