Examining the relationship between aging, health, and genetic mutations

Aging, Geriatric Syndromes and Clonal Hematopoiesis

Observational Washington University School of Medicine · NCT02604563

This study looks at how aging, health, and genetic changes are connected in older adults to better understand their overall well-being and heart health.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment2000 (estimated)
Ages50 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorWashington University School of Medicine Academic / other
Drugs / interventionschemotherapy, radiation, Cytoxan
Locations1 site (St Louis, Missouri)
Trial IDNCT02604563 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study investigates the association between various clinical variables related to aging and cardiovascular diseases and mutation status, independent of chronological age. It employs a comprehensive geriatric assessment that evaluates multiple dimensions of health in older adults, including comorbidity, functional status, cognition, and social support. By focusing on these factors, the study aims to provide a more nuanced understanding of aging beyond just age in years.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are individuals aged 50 and older who can understand and consent to participate.

Not a fit: Patients with current cancer diagnoses or those undergoing treatments that cause DNA damage may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance the understanding of how genetic mutations relate to aging and improve health outcomes for older adults.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown success in using comprehensive assessments to understand aging, but this specific approach to linking mutation status with geriatric syndromes is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* At least 50 years of age.
* Able to understand written and spoken English.
* Able to understand and willing to sign an IRB-approved written informed consent document (or that of a legally authorized representative, if applicable for the trauma cohort)

Exclusion Criteria:

* Inability or unwillingness to complete health questionnaire (with the exception of hip replacement participants).
* History of a recent (\<30 days) acute viral illness.
* Current cancer diagnosis and currently receiving chemotherapy or undergoing radiation therapy. A prior history of cancer is allowed if the participant completed therapy \> 1 year prior to enrollment; participants with a prior diagnosis of cancer will be asked to sign a release of information for the research team to obtain records regarding their prior cancer treatment.
* Current use of drugs that cause DNA damage (e.g. Cytoxan, azathioprine, etc.) for the treatment of a non-malignant disease.
* Vulnerable populations (e.g. prisoners).
* Known infection with Hepatitis B or C, HTLV, or HIV.
* Additional exclusion for optional bone marrow aspirate/biopsy substudy:

  * Use of medications for anticoagulation or "blood thinning" including warfarin, low molecular weight heparins (enoxaparin, daltaparin) or direct-acting oral anticoagulants (dabigatran, rivaroxaban, apixaban, edoxaban or betrixaban)
  * allergy to lidocaine or other local anesthetics.

Where this trial is running

St Louis, Missouri

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions GeriatricsAgedGeriatric SyndromesCardiovascular Diseases
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 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.