Understanding how aging affects muscle health and function
Official title: Role of Central Autonomic Relays in Aging Sarcopenia
Funded at Wake Forest University Health Sciences · NIH-11017759 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the nerves that control our body's automatic functions affect muscle health as we get older, and it aims to find ways to help older adults keep their muscles strong and healthy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Wake Forest University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Winston-Salem, United States) |
| Project start | February 15, 2022 |
| Project end | January 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $523,616 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AG071545-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11017759 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 65 and older who may be experiencing muscle weakness or related health issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients under the age of 65 or those without any signs of muscle decline may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the central autonomic nervous system in maintaining muscle health as people age. It focuses on how sympathetic nerves interact with skeletal muscles and how their function declines with age, potentially leading to muscle weakness and loss. By examining the molecular mechanisms involved, the study aims to identify ways to improve muscle function in older adults. Patients may be involved in assessments that help understand these processes better.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that enhance muscle strength and function in older adults, improving their quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of sympathetic nerves in muscle health, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Wake Forest University Health Sciences
Winston-Salem, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Delbono, Osvaldo — Wake Forest University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Delbono, Osvaldo
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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.