Oxidized lipids driving aging-related muscle loss
Official title: A novel role for oxidized lipid mediators as effectors of muscle atrophy and weakness in aging
Funded at Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation · NIH-11396249 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This project explores how certain lipid molecules that are damaged or modified over time contribute to muscle weakness and loss in older adults, with the goal of identifying new ways to prevent sarcopenia.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Oklahoma City, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2022 |
| Project end | May 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $534,035 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AG077812-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11396249 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates are older adults experiencing age-related muscle weakness or sarcopenia, or individuals at risk of muscle loss due to aging.
✕Less likely to help
Very early-stage work with non-human models may not directly benefit patients in the near term.
What this research studies
As people age, muscles often shrink and weaken, a process called sarcopenia. The research investigates whether bioactive lipids created after nerve loss in muscles drive this wasting, by examining the pathways that release fatty acids and form oxidized lipid signaling molecules. Scientists will test how these lipids damage muscle membranes and mitochondria, and whether blocking their production can protect muscle. The study uses cell and animal models to trace the steps from innervation loss to muscle atrophy, aiming to pinpoint potential targets for intervention. Results could lead to strategies to preserve strength and function in the elderly.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work may identify new targets to prevent or slow muscle loss in aging, helping older adults stay stronger and more active.
How similar studies have gone: Prior research supports a link between lipid signaling and muscle atrophy, but this exact mechanism in aging-related sarcopenia is being tested and remains somewhat novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation
Oklahoma City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Humphries, Kenneth M — Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation
- Study coordinator: Humphries, Kenneth M
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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.