How exercise affects muscle metabolism through reactive oxygen species

Endothelial Reactive Oxygen Species in Exercise Metabolism

NIH-funded research Virginia Polytechnic Inst and St Univ · NIH-11175783

This study is looking at how exercise affects muscle metabolism and whether certain molecules in the body, called reactive oxygen species, help or hurt our muscles during workouts, which could lead to better ways to stay healthy and prevent muscle-related diseases.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVirginia Polytechnic Inst and St Univ NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Blacksburg, United States)
Project IDNIH-11175783 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how exercise influences the metabolism of skeletal muscle by examining the role of reactive oxygen species (ROS). It aims to understand the complex signaling processes that occur in muscle cells during exercise, including communication between different cell types such as myocytes and endothelial cells. By focusing on the enzyme NADPH oxidase 4 (NOX4), the study seeks to clarify whether ROS are beneficial or harmful in the context of exercise-induced muscle adaptation. The findings could lead to new strategies for promoting health and preventing diseases related to muscle metabolism.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals interested in improving their muscle metabolism through exercise, particularly those at risk for metabolic diseases.

Not a fit: Patients who are unable to engage in physical activity or have severe metabolic disorders may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved exercise strategies that enhance muscle health and prevent diseases like diabetes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding the role of ROS in muscle metabolism can lead to significant advancements in exercise science, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Blacksburg, 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.