Improving breathing and muscle function in older adults with Alzheimer's disease

Ameliorating Respiratory Neuromotor Dysfunctions in Aging and Alzheimer's Disease

NIH-funded research Mayo Clinic Rochester · NIH-11141565

This study is looking at how getting older and having Alzheimer's can impact your muscles and breathing, especially how weak muscles might lead to more infections, and it hopes to find ways to help improve breathing and health for older adults.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMayo Clinic Rochester NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Rochester, United States)
Project IDNIH-11141565 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how aging and Alzheimer's disease affect the neuromotor system, particularly focusing on muscle weakness and respiratory issues. It aims to understand the relationship between muscle atrophy, specifically in the diaphragm and other respiratory muscles, and the increased risk of infections in older adults. By examining the underlying mechanisms of muscle denervation and dysfunction, the study seeks to develop interventions that could enhance respiratory function and overall health in this population.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults aged 65 and above, particularly those diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or experiencing respiratory issues.

Not a fit: Patients under the age of 65 or those without Alzheimer's disease or significant respiratory dysfunction may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved respiratory health and reduced infection rates in older adults with Alzheimer's disease.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding neuromotor dysfunctions in aging, indicating that this approach may lead to significant advancements in treatment.

Where this research is happening

Rochester, 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.