Understanding how apelin affects muscle regeneration as we age
Official title: Apelin Signaling in Muscle Regeneration
Funded at University of Maine Orono · NIH-11080328 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a substance called apelin helps muscles heal and grow back, especially as we get older and face muscle loss, using zebrafish to learn more about how it works with different cells in the body.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Maine Orono NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Orono, United States) |
| Project start | April 5, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $299,662 |
| NIH project number | 5P20GM144265-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11080328 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults, particularly those over 80 years of age, who are experiencing muscle loss or related mobility issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are younger and do not have age-related muscle decline or sarcopenia may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the apelin signaling pathway in muscle regeneration, particularly in the context of aging and age-related muscle loss, known as sarcopenia. By using zebrafish as a model, the study aims to explore how apelin influences communication between muscle stem cells, endothelial cells, and immune cells to enhance muscle recovery. The researchers will employ advanced techniques, including pharmacological interventions and single-cell RNA sequencing, to uncover the mechanisms by which apelin promotes muscle health and combats age-related decline.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that improve muscle regeneration and function in older adults, potentially reducing the risks associated with sarcopenia.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promising results with apelin treatments in animal models, indicating potential for success in this area of research.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Maine Orono
Orono, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Madelaine, Romain — University of Maine Orono
- Study coordinator: Madelaine, Romain
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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.