How protein intake and gut bacteria affect mobility in older adults

The relationship between protein intake, gut microbiome, inflammaging and loss of mobility in older adults

NIH-funded research University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh · NIH-10983799

This study is looking at how what older adults eat, especially protein, affects their gut health, inflammation, and ability to move around, with the hope of creating personalized diet plans that better support healthy aging.

Quick facts

Grant typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Pittsburgh, United States)
Project IDNIH-10983799 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the connection between protein consumption, gut microbiome health, inflammation, and mobility loss in older adults. The goal is to develop personalized dietary recommendations that cater to the unique nutritional needs of aging individuals, moving away from generic guidelines. By analyzing dietary intake and gut bacteria profiles, the study aims to understand how these factors contribute to healthy aging and functional mobility. Participants may provide dietary data and biological samples to help uncover these relationships.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults who may be experiencing mobility issues or are at risk of muscle loss.

Not a fit: Patients who are not older adults or those with no mobility concerns may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to tailored dietary guidelines that improve mobility and overall health in older adults.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of diet and gut microbiome in aging, but this specific approach is relatively novel.

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.