Understanding muscle loss in early Alzheimer's disease

Accelerated Sarcopenia in Early Alzheimer's Disease

NIH-funded research Wake Forest University Health Sciences · NIH-10991329

This study is looking at how early Alzheimer's disease can cause muscle loss before memory problems start, and it aims to find ways to keep your muscles healthy and strong while managing the condition.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionWake Forest University Health Sciences NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Winston-Salem, United States)
Project IDNIH-10991329 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how early Alzheimer's disease (AD) affects physical function and leads to muscle loss, known as sarcopenia, before cognitive symptoms appear. It explores the connection between brain function and muscle health, focusing on specific neurons that may regulate both cognitive and motor functions. By studying these mechanisms, the research aims to identify potential interventions that could help maintain muscle mass and improve overall health in AD patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with early Alzheimer's disease who are experiencing physical function decline.

Not a fit: Patients with advanced Alzheimer's disease or those without any cognitive impairment may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing muscle loss and improving physical function in patients with early Alzheimer's disease.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the relationship between muscle health and cognitive function in Alzheimer's disease, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Winston-Salem, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Alzheimer disease dementiaAlzheimer syndrome
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.