How diet and metabolism affect healthy aging
Official title: Metabolic regulation of healthy aging by diet, mTOR signaling, and skeletal muscle
Funded at University of Wisconsin-Madison · NIH-11216567 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how changing what we eat, especially by cutting back on certain nutrients like protein, can help older adults stay healthier as they age, and it’s exploring how a hormone called FGF21 and a specific cellular process work together to support this.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Madison, United States) |
| Project start | September 10, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $83,731 |
| NIH project number | 4K00AG083290-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11216567 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 65 and older who are interested in improving their metabolic health through dietary changes.
✕Less likely to help
Patients under the age of 65 or those with severe metabolic disorders that require immediate medical intervention may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how dietary changes, particularly the restriction of specific nutrients like protein, can influence metabolic health and aging in older adults. It focuses on understanding the role of a hormone called FGF21 and a cellular pathway known as mTORC1 in promoting better health outcomes as people age. By studying these mechanisms in mouse models, the research aims to identify effective dietary strategies that could help improve health and longevity without the need for strict calorie restrictions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to dietary recommendations that enhance metabolic health and promote healthy aging in older adults.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results with dietary interventions in animal models, suggesting potential for success in similar human applications.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Madison, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Trautman, Michaela — University of Wisconsin-Madison
- Study coordinator: Trautman, Michaela
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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.