Investigating how unacylated ghrelin affects muscle weakness in aging and cancer.
The role of unacylated ghrelin in age-associated progressive muscle weakness and cachexia elicited by cancer.
This study is looking at whether a hormone called unacylated ghrelin can help older adults and cancer patients keep their muscles strong and prevent muscle loss, with the hope of finding a new way to support those dealing with muscle weakness.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Wake Forest University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Winston-Salem, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11017108 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on the effects of unacylated ghrelin, a hormone, on muscle weakness and loss of muscle mass associated with aging and cancer cachexia. The study aims to determine if this hormone can help delay muscle deterioration in older adults and cancer patients. By examining how unacylated ghrelin influences muscle cells, researchers hope to find a new treatment option for those suffering from muscle atrophy. The approach includes laboratory experiments to assess muscle cell behavior in response to this hormone.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults experiencing muscle weakness or cancer patients suffering from cachexia.
Not a fit: Patients who are not experiencing muscle weakness or do not have cancer-related cachexia may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that improve muscle strength and quality of life for older adults and cancer patients.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with similar hormonal interventions in muscle atrophy, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
Winston-Salem, United States
- Wake Forest University Health Sciences — Winston-Salem, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ahn, Bumsoo — Wake Forest University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Ahn, Bumsoo
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.