Exploring the role of non-essential amino acids in muscle protein synthesis in healthy young men
Official title: The Importance of Non-essential Amino Acids for Maintaining Skeletal Muscle Protein Synthesis Rates in Healthy Young Men
Run by Maastricht University Medical Center · NCT06687343 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing whether taking non-essential amino acid supplements can help healthy young men build muscle and improve their metabolism compared to essential amino acids and a control supplement.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 35 Years |
| Sex | Men only |
| Enrollment | 64 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Maastricht University Medical Center Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Maastricht) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | November 14, 2024 |
| Main results expected | September 2026 |
| Study ends | December 2026 |
| Registry record updated | December 24, 2024 |
| Trial ID | NCT06687343 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are healthy males aged 18 to 35 with a BMI between 22 and 30.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with metabolic disorders, cardiovascular diseases, or those participating in structured exercise programs may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This study investigates the impact of dietary non-essential amino acids (NEAA) on muscle protein synthesis and overall metabolism in healthy young males. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either NEAA supplements, essential amino acid (EAA) supplements, or a control maltodextrin supplement over a 10-day period. The study employs a double-blind, parallel design to ensure unbiased results. By examining how varying levels of NEAA affect muscle building and energy metabolism, the research aims to provide insights into optimal dietary practices for muscle maintenance.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance dietary recommendations for maintaining muscle mass in young men.
How similar studies have gone: While the role of essential amino acids is well-studied, the specific focus on non-essential amino acids in this context is relatively novel.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Male * Age between 18 and 35 y inclusive * BMI between 22 and 30 kg/m2 * Non-smoker * Having given informed consent Exclusion Criteria: * Participating in a structured (progressive) exercise program * Smoker * Diagnosed GI tract disorders or diseases * Diagnosed musculoskeletal disorders * Diagnosed metabolic disorders (e.g. diabetes) * Cardiovascular disease * Hypertension (blood pressure above 140/90 mmHg) * Donated blood 3 months prior to test day * Use of any medications known to affect protein metabolism (i.e. corticosteroids, non-steroidal anti-inflammatories). * Chronic use of gastric acid suppressing medication * Chronic use of anti-coagulants * Any intolerance to foods included in the standardized diet intervention * Any implants that would be a contra-indication for performing an MRI scan
Where it's running
-
Maastricht University Medical Center
Maastricht, Netherlands Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Heather Petrick, MSc
- Email: h.petrick@maastrichtuniversity.nl
- Phone: 0031883887244
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.