Reducing muscle and blood vessel problems in older adults during hospital stays

Targeting Oxidative Stress to Prevent Vascular and Skeletal Muscle Dysfunction during Disuse

NIH-funded research University of Utah · NIH-10673189

This study is looking at how stress in our cells affects the muscles and blood vessels of older adults when they aren't active, like during a hospital stay, and it aims to find ways to help them recover better using special treatments; it's for healthy men and women over 65 who want to stay strong and active.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Utah NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Salt Lake City, United States)
Project IDNIH-10673189 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how oxidative stress contributes to the decline in vascular and skeletal muscle function in older adults during periods of disuse, such as hospitalization. The study aims to identify mechanisms behind these declines and develop strategies to mitigate them using two innovative approaches: mitochondrial targeted antioxidants and a specific activator that enhances cellular defense mechanisms. By focusing on older adults, the research seeks to improve recovery and reduce the risk of disability associated with hospitalization. Participants will be healthy older men and women over 65 years old, who will be randomized into different treatment groups to assess the effectiveness of these interventions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are healthy older adults aged 65 and above who may be hospitalized.

Not a fit: Patients who are younger than 65 or those with significant pre-existing health conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved recovery and reduced disability for older adults after hospitalization.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using antioxidants to combat oxidative stress, suggesting potential success for this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Salt Lake City, 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.