Understanding Functional Decline in Older Adults and the Role of Iron
Functional Decline in Low Functioning Older Adults; Role of iron dysregulation
This work explores why some older adults experience a faster decline in their physical abilities, focusing on how iron levels might play a part.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Gainesville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11164548 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Maintaining independence in movement is very important, especially as we age. We know that older adults who start with lower physical function tend to decline more quickly, but we don't fully understand why this happens or how to slow it down. This project looks closely at the body's energy factories, called mitochondria, and how problems with them might contribute to this decline. Specifically, we are exploring if issues with how the body handles iron, which is crucial for mitochondrial health, could be a key factor in accelerating this process.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research is relevant for older adults, particularly those aged 65 and over who are experiencing or are at risk of accelerated functional decline.
Not a fit: Patients who are not older adults or who do not experience functional decline may not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new ways to prevent or slow down the loss of physical independence in older adults by targeting iron regulation.
How similar studies have performed: While the link between mitochondrial dysfunction and aging is established, the specific role of iron dysregulation in accelerating functional decline in low-functioning older adults is an area of ongoing exploration.
Where this research is happening
Gainesville, United States
- University of Florida — Gainesville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Leeuwenburgh, Christiaan — University of Florida
- Study coordinator: Leeuwenburgh, Christiaan
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 below.