Mapping how muscles use energy in the body

In vivo Mapping of Muscle Specific Metabolism

NIH-funded research University of Pennsylvania · NIH-10993577

This study is looking at how our muscles use energy during exercise and how that changes as we get older, using a special imaging technique that doesn’t require any invasive procedures, to help us understand and improve muscle health as we age.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pennsylvania NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-10993577 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates muscle metabolism using a non-invasive imaging technique called Cr-amine chemical exchange saturation transfer (CrCEST). It aims to measure the energy reserves in muscles, specifically focusing on how phosphocreatine and adenosine triphosphate are utilized during exercise and how these processes change with age. By comparing different muscle groups, the study seeks to provide insights into the metabolic differences that occur as we age, potentially leading to better understanding and treatment of age-related muscle decline.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults over the age of 21 who are interested in understanding muscle metabolism and its changes with age.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions that severely limit muscle function or those who are unable to undergo MRI procedures may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for maintaining muscle health and function in aging populations.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies using similar imaging techniques have shown promise in understanding muscle metabolism, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Philadelphia, 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.