Neural signals behind age-related muscle weakness
Official title: Neural mechanisms of age-related weakness
Funded at Ohio University Athens · NIH-11380730 · Data updated 2026-11-12
Researchers are studying why older adults lose muscle strength and how brain and nerve activity contribute, with findings that could lead to better ways to keep people independent.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ohio University Athens NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Athens, United States) |
| Project start | August 15, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $604,912 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AG078129-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11380730 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Older adults experiencing or at risk for age-related muscle weakness and mobility limitations.
✕Less likely to help
Results may not directly benefit younger individuals or those without age-related weakness.
What this research studies
This project looks at why aging causes weakness by linking neural activity to muscle function in older adults and tests potential treatment strategies in both humans and animals. It includes a longitudinal human study to see if neural hypoexcitability predicts future strength loss, plus supporting rodent experiments to explore mechanisms and interventions. The work aims to identify targets that could be used to improve strength and mobility in older people, potentially leading to new therapies or exercise approaches. Results could inform personalized plans to maintain independence as people age.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the research could identify neural factors contributing to weakness and guide new or refined therapies to preserve strength and independence in older adults.
How similar studies have gone: Preliminary evidence suggests a link between neural activation and age-related weakness, with translational studies showing promise in animals and humans.
Where this research is happening
-
Ohio University Athens
Athens, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Clark, Brian C — Ohio University Athens
- Study coordinator: Clark, Brian C
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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.