Stem cell mRNA marks and fat-infiltrated aging muscles
Official title: The role of stem cell mRNA methylation and fibrofatty infiltration during aging
Funded at Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation · NIH-11593119 · Data updated 2026-11-12
Researchers are studying how aging changes muscle at the cellular level, including fat and fibrous tissue buildup, to help keep older adults stronger and more mobile.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Oklahoma City, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2026 |
| Project end | April 30, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $263,102 |
| NIH project number | 5P20GM156711-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11593119 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates are adults aged 21 and older experiencing age-related changes in muscle health, particularly those at risk for sarcopenia and fibrofatty infiltration.
✕Less likely to help
Individuals without aging-related muscle concerns or those not eligible due to study requirements may not benefit.
What this research studies
As a patient, you might benefit from discoveries about why aging muscles become stiffer and weaker, and how stem cell biology contributes to this process. The project will investigate molecular changes in muscle cells, including 3'UTR regions and mRNA methylation, to understand why fibrofatty infiltration happens with age. By focusing on aging muscle health, the study aims to identify targets that could improve muscle function and quality of life for older adults. The work involves advanced lab methods and aims to translate findings toward therapies that preserve mobility, not just treat symptoms.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new approaches that maintain muscle strength and reduce frailty in aging individuals.
How similar studies have gone: Prior work shows altering muscle biology can influence muscle health, but this exact approach focusing on stem cell mRNA methylation and fibrofatty infiltration is a novel direction.
Where this research is happening
-
Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation
Oklahoma City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hettinger, Zachary — Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation
- Study coordinator: Hettinger, Zachary
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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.