Using senolytics to improve exercise response in mice with muscle loss from cancer

Utilizing senolytics to enhance the response to exercise in cachectic mice

NIH-funded research Baylor University · NIH-10986820

This study is looking at how special compounds that help get rid of old, damaged cells can make exercise more effective for mice with cancer-related muscle loss, and it hopes to find ways to help cancer survivors keep their strength and health after treatment.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionBaylor University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Waco, United States)
Project IDNIH-10986820 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how senolytic compounds, which target and eliminate senescent cells, can enhance the effectiveness of exercise in mice suffering from cancer cachexia, a condition characterized by severe muscle loss. The study aims to understand the relationship between chemotherapy-induced muscle atrophy and the accumulation of senescent cells in muscle tissue. By combining exercise training with senolytics, the researchers hope to mitigate muscle loss and improve overall physical function and metabolic health in these mice. This approach could provide insights into potential therapies for cancer survivors experiencing similar issues.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are cancer survivors who are experiencing muscle loss due to chemotherapy.

Not a fit: Patients who are not cancer survivors or those who do not experience muscle loss as a result of their treatment may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that help cancer survivors maintain muscle mass and improve their quality of life during and after treatment.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using senolytics to improve health outcomes in aging and muscle loss, suggesting that this approach may be effective.

Where this research is happening

Waco, 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.
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.