Multiscale microgels delivering GDNF and agrin to help with sarcopenia
Official title: Multiscale Microgels Delivering GDNF and Agrin with Resistance Training to Enhance Outcomes in Sarcopenia
Funded at University of Kentucky · NIH-11451992 · Data updated 2026-11-12
Aimed at older adults with muscle loss, this project tests a new treatment that slowly releases biological factors to support nerve-muscle connections and improve strength when combined with or for people who can’t do intense resistance training.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Kentucky NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Lexington, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2026 |
| Project end | August 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $590,826 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AG095587-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11451992 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Adults aged 60 or older with aging-related muscle weakness or sarcopenia, including those who have limited ability to participate in resistance training.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without sarcopenia or those unable to participate in any study procedures may not benefit.
What this research studies
This study will use tiny porous silicon particles loaded with GDNF and agrin to target the neuromuscular junctions that deteriorate with aging. By delivering these biologics in a controlled way, the approach seeks to enhance nerve and muscle signaling and potentially improve muscle mass and function in sarcopenia. The plan includes preclinical and early human testing to see if the treatment is safe and can work alongside exercise or in those unable to perform vigorous training. Patients with aging-related muscle loss could be candidates for future trials if the approach shows promise. The grant focuses on translating a biological strategy into a practical therapy for older adults at risk of falls and mobility loss.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could slow or reverse muscle decline in older adults and reduce falls, fractures, and dependence.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies with similar biologic strategies at the NMJ have shown safety and potential functional gains in early work, but this is an early-stage (R21) exploration in humans.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Kentucky
Lexington, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zuidema, Jonathan Michael — University of Kentucky
- Study coordinator: Zuidema, Jonathan Michael
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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.