Investigating how unacylated ghrelin affects muscle weakness and loss in aging and cancer patients

The role of unacylated ghrelin on age-associated progressive muscle weakness and cachexia elicited by cancer

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · WAKE FOREST UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES · NIH-10791902

This study is looking at how a hormone called unacylated ghrelin might help older adults and cancer patients keep their muscles strong and healthy, which could improve their overall quality of life.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorWAKE FOREST UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES (nih funded)
Locations1 site (WINSTON-SALEM, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10791902 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on the effects of unacylated ghrelin, a hormone, on preventing muscle weakness and loss associated with aging and cancer cachexia. The study aims to explore how this hormone can promote muscle health by enhancing muscle cell differentiation and reducing atrophy. Patients may benefit from a novel treatment that could improve their quality of life by maintaining muscle mass and strength. The research involves both laboratory experiments and potential clinical applications.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who are experiencing muscle weakness or cachexia due to aging or cancer.

Not a fit: Patients who are not experiencing muscle weakness or cachexia, or those under 21 years of age, may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that help patients maintain muscle strength and mass, improving their overall health and quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with similar hormonal interventions, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

WINSTON-SALEM, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.