Investigating a new treatment for age-related muscle loss and frailty

Catestatin and its mimetic pharmacophore TKO-10-18 as potential therapies for age-associated muscle loss and the consequent frailty

NIH-funded research VA San Diego Healthcare System · NIH-10940584

This study is looking at new treatments for sarcopenia, which is when older adults lose muscle strength and mass, and it will test a special peptide to see if it can help improve muscle health and function.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVA San Diego Healthcare System NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Diego, United States)
Project IDNIH-10940584 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing potential therapies for sarcopenia, the age-related loss of muscle mass and function, which significantly impacts the health and quality of life of older adults. The study will explore the effects of a peptide called catestatin and its mimetic, TKO-10-18, on reversing the muscle deterioration associated with aging. By examining how these compounds influence inflammation, muscle strength, and neuromuscular junction function, the research aims to provide a new avenue for treating this condition. Participants may be involved in trials assessing the safety and effectiveness of these therapies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 65 and older who are experiencing age-related muscle loss.

Not a fit: Patients under 21 years old or those without signs of muscle loss may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to effective treatments for sarcopenia, improving muscle health and quality of life for older adults.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach is innovative, similar studies targeting neuromuscular function and inflammation in aging have shown promise, indicating potential for success.

Where this research is happening

San Diego, 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.