Investigating how specific proteins affect muscle health in diabetes and aging

Roles of FoxO interactions in diabetic and age-related muscle disease

NIH-funded research Iowa City VA Medical Center · NIH-10918617

This study is looking at how specific proteins affect muscle strength and energy in veterans with diabetes and aging, hoping to find ways to help improve muscle health and reduce weakness and fatigue.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionIowa City VA Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Iowa City, United States)
Project IDNIH-10918617 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how certain proteins, known as FoxO transcription factors, influence muscle function in individuals with diabetes and those who are aging. It examines the mechanisms behind muscle weakness and fatigue, particularly in veterans who experience these issues more frequently. By studying mouse models, the research aims to uncover how FoxO proteins interact with other molecules to regulate mitochondrial function in muscle cells, which is crucial for maintaining muscle strength and recovery. The ultimate goal is to identify potential therapeutic targets that could improve muscle health in affected patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include veterans with type 1 or type 2 diabetes who experience muscle weakness and fatigue, as well as older adults facing similar challenges.

Not a fit: Patients without diabetes or significant muscle weakness, or those who are not veterans, may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that enhance muscle strength and reduce fatigue in patients with diabetes and age-related muscle diseases.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of FoxO proteins in muscle function, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Iowa City, 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.
Conditions Adult-Onset Diabetes MellitusBrittle Diabetes MellitusCancers
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.