How blood energy levels relate to muscle function and aging

The relationship between blood based bioenergetics and muscle function, mobility, and aging

NIH-funded research University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh · NIH-10992159

This study is looking at how the energy production in your blood cells impacts your muscle strength and movement as you get older, and it hopes to find signs that can help predict when physical performance might decline, so we can help older adults stay active and mobile.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Pittsburgh, United States)
Project IDNIH-10992159 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how energy production in blood cells affects muscle function and mobility as people age. It aims to identify biomarkers that can predict declines in physical performance, which is crucial for developing interventions to maintain mobility in older adults. The study utilizes advanced techniques to measure bioenergetic function in blood cells, linking these findings to overall physical ability. By understanding the relationship between blood-based bioenergetics and muscle function, the research seeks to uncover new insights into age-related mobility decline.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults experiencing mobility issues or declines in physical performance.

Not a fit: Patients who are younger and do not have any mobility issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preserving mobility and improving quality of life in older adults.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding mitochondrial dysfunction and its impact on physical performance, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Pittsburgh, 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 2026-06-13 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.