Understanding how aging affects muscle function at the genetic level
Official title: Alternative splicing and expression of transposable elements in aging skeletal muscle
Funded at University of Washington · NIH-10994905 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how our genes change in our muscles as we get older and how these changes might affect how well our muscles work, with the hope of finding ways to keep our muscles healthy as we age.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Washington NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $485,375 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AG087517-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10994905 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults experiencing muscle decline or those interested in understanding the biological processes of aging.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not elderly or do not have concerns related to muscle function may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the genetic changes in skeletal muscle that occur as people age, focusing on how these changes affect muscle function. The team will analyze the expression of genes and the process of alternative splicing, which can create different protein variants that may influence muscle health. By examining these molecular alterations, the research aims to uncover mechanisms that contribute to muscle decline in older adults, potentially leading to strategies for prevention or mitigation of this decline.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new approaches for preserving muscle function in aging individuals.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of genetic factors in aging, making this approach both relevant and potentially impactful.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Washington
Seattle, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mustelin, Tomas M — University of Washington
- Study coordinator: Mustelin, Tomas 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.