Understanding how aging affects muscle weakness
Official title: Neural mechanisms of age-related weakness
Funded at Ohio University Athens · NIH-10905001 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the brain affects muscle weakness in older adults, with the goal of finding ways to help them stay strong and do everyday activities more easily.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ohio University Athens NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Athens, United States) |
| Project start | August 15, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $628,827 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AG078129-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10905001 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults aged 65 and over who experience muscle weakness or limitations in physical function.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are younger than 65 or do not experience any muscle weakness may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the neural mechanisms that contribute to muscle weakness in older adults, which can significantly impact their ability to perform daily tasks. By examining both human participants and rodent models, the study aims to identify how reduced neural activation is linked to strength loss as people age. The researchers will conduct longitudinal assessments to track changes in strength over time and explore potential interventions to enhance muscle function. This comprehensive approach seeks to provide insights that could lead to targeted therapies for improving strength in older adults.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that enhance muscle strength and improve the quality of life for older adults.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the relationship between neural activation and muscle strength, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Ohio University Athens
Athens, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Clark, Brian C — Ohio University Athens
- Study coordinator: Clark, Brian C
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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.