Effects of amino acids on muscle protein synthesis and insulin sensitivity
The Role of Branched-chain Amino Acids (BCAAs) in the Stimulation of Skeletal Muscle Protein Synthesis and Glucose Uptake in Healthy Young Volunteers
NA · Wageningen University · NCT06218264
This study tests if drinking a mix of amino acids, with or without branched-chain amino acids, can improve muscle health and insulin sensitivity in healthy young adults.
Quick facts
| Phase | NA |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 28 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 35 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Wageningen University (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (Wageningen, Gelderland) |
| Trial ID | NCT06218264 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates how consuming a drink containing all amino acids or all amino acids except for branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) affects insulin sensitivity and muscle protein synthesis in healthy young adults. Twenty-eight participants will undergo a stable isotope tracer infusion for 7.5 hours, during which blood and muscle samples will be collected to measure the rate of muscle protein synthesis in a postabsorptive state. The study aims to provide insights into the role of BCAAs in metabolic processes related to muscle health.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are healthy young adults aged 18-35 with a BMI between 18.5 and 30 who engage in recreational physical activity.
Not a fit: Patients with diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, or those regularly using protein supplements may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance understanding of dietary amino acids' impact on muscle health and insulin sensitivity, potentially guiding nutritional recommendations.
How similar studies have performed: While studies on amino acids and muscle metabolism exist, this specific approach focusing on BCAAs and insulin sensitivity is relatively novel.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Aged from 18-35 years * 18.5 \< Body mass index \< 30 kg·m2 * Recreationally active (performing non-competitive physical exercise at least one time per week for minimally 30 minutes) Exclusion Criteria: * Smoking * Diabetes (Type 1, Type 2, or genetic form of diabetes) * Any diagnosed cardiovascular (heart) disease or high blood pressure (≥140 mmHg systolic and/or ≥90 mmHg diastolic) * Chronic use of any prescribed or over the counter pharmaceuticals (excluding oral contraceptives and contraceptive devices) * Known allergy to lidocaine * Regular use of dietary protein and/or amino acid supplements (\>3 times per week) * Currently involved in a structured progressive resistance training programme (\>3 times per week) * A personal or family history of thrombosis (clots), epilepsy, seizures, or schizophrenia. * Any previous motor disorders or disorders in muscle and/or lipid metabolism * Presence of an ulcer in the stomach or gut and/or strong history of indigestion * Known severe kidney problems * Pregnant or breastfeeding * Unable to give consent
Where this trial is running
Wageningen, Gelderland
- Wageningen University and Research — Wageningen, Gelderland, Netherlands (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Marlou Dirks, PhD
- Email: marlou.dirks@wur.nl
- Phone: +31 317 480 100
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions: Healthy