Understanding how inflammation affects muscle function in older adults

Mechanisms of Anabolic Resistance in Older Humans

Observational Mayo Clinic · NCT06617195

This study is testing how long-term inflammation affects muscle function and exercise responses in older adults compared to younger adults.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment120 (estimated)
Ages21 Years to 85 Years
SexAll
SponsorMayo Clinic Academic / other
Locations1 site (Rochester, Minnesota)
Trial IDNCT06617195 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This research aims to explore the impact of chronic inflammation on muscle function and exercise responses in older adults. It hypothesizes that inflamed adipose tissue secretes factors that activate inflammatory pathways in skeletal muscle, potentially disrupting exercise-responsive mechanisms. The study will involve both young and older adults who will undergo assessments of molecular responses to acute exercise, including protein synthesis rates and gene activation in skeletal muscle. Additionally, adipose tissue will be evaluated through non-invasive imaging and biopsies to determine its influence on muscle function and anabolic responses to exercise.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are older adults who are physically active and do not have chronic inflammatory conditions.

Not a fit: Patients with diabetes, obesity, or significant chronic diseases may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved exercise strategies for older adults, enhancing their muscle function and overall health.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have indicated that addressing inflammation can improve muscle function, suggesting potential success for this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Exclusion Criteria:

1. Diabetes or fasting plasma glucose 126 mg/dL
2. Body mass index (BMI) 30 kg/m2
3. Anemia (female subjects hemoglobin of \<11 g/dl and male subjects hemoglobin \<12 g/dl)
4. Active coronary artery disease or history of unstable macrovascular disease (unstable angina, myocardial infarction, stroke, and revascularization of coronary, peripheral or carotid artery within 3 months of recruitment)
5. Renal failure (serum creatinine \> 1.5mg/dl)
6. Chronic active liver disease (AST\>144IU/L or ALT\>165IU/L)
7. Oral warfarin group medications or history of blood clotting disorders.
8. Smoking
9. Pregnancy or breastfeeding
10. Alcohol consumption greater than 2 glasses/day or other substance abuse
11. Untreated or uncontrolled hypothyroidism
12. Debilitating chronic disease (at the discretion of the investigators)

Where this trial is running

Rochester, Minnesota

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 Aging
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.