Investigating how AMPK affects muscle mass and function in cancer cachexia
The Role of AMPK in Regulating Muscle Mass and Function in Cancer Cachexia
This study is looking at how a protein called AMPK can help cancer patients who are losing weight and muscle strength, with the goal of finding new ways to improve their health and quality of life.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Washington NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11088167 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on cancer cachexia, a condition that leads to significant weight loss and muscle wasting in cancer patients, negatively impacting their quality of life and physical function. The study aims to explore the role of AMPK, a protein that regulates energy in muscle cells, in combating the muscle loss associated with cancer and its treatments. By understanding how AMPK functions in this context, the researchers hope to develop new therapies that can improve muscle mass and function in affected patients. The approach includes examining the relationship between inflammation, oxidative stress, and muscle health in cancer cachexia.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old who are experiencing cancer cachexia due to cancer or its treatments.
Not a fit: Patients who are not diagnosed with cancer or do not exhibit symptoms of cachexia may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that help cancer patients maintain muscle mass and improve their overall health and quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: While the role of AMPK in muscle regulation is known, the specific application to cancer cachexia is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
Seattle, United States
- University of Washington — Seattle, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kerr, Haiming Liu — University of Washington
- Study coordinator: Kerr, Haiming Liu
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 below.