Understanding Muscle Regeneration in ICU Survivors

Skeletal Muscle Regeneration in Survivors of Critical Illness: How to Prevent Satellite Cell Failure?

Observational Charles University, Czech Republic · NCT05671614

This study is trying to understand how muscle weakness happens in people who have survived serious illnesses by looking at special cells that help muscles heal.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment50 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorCharles University, Czech Republic Academic / other
Locations1 site (Prague, Czech Republic)
Trial IDNCT05671614 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study investigates the mechanisms behind muscle weakness in patients who have survived critical illnesses, particularly focusing on the role of satellite cells in muscle regeneration. It aims to analyze the function and structure of these cells and their organelles, especially mitochondria, through advanced microscopic techniques and bioenergetics. By isolating satellite cells from muscle biopsies of critically ill patients, the study seeks to uncover the pathogenesis of muscle weakness and potential therapeutic targets for improving recovery.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include critically ill patients on mechanical ventilation who are expected to stay in the ICU for at least 7 days.

Not a fit: Patients with a poor prognosis, significant pre-existing functional decline, or those with specific exclusion criteria such as known mitochondrial diseases will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to new strategies for preventing muscle weakness in critically ill patients, ultimately improving their recovery and quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: While pilot studies have indicated a connection between muscle weakness and satellite cell dysfunction, this specific approach to understanding the underlying mechanisms is novel and has not been extensively tested.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Eligibility Criteria for group of Critically ill patients:

Inclusion Criteria:

* Critically ill patients receiving mechanical ventilation, to be enrolled within 72 hours of admission, who are likely to need 7 days or more of ICU stay
* Sudden onset of disease, which can be determined in time (such as trauma, stroke, sudden cardiac arrest etc.)
* Informed consent signed by patient or patient's representative

Exclusion Criteria:

* Unlikely to survive 6 months
* Premorbid downslope functional trajectory or poor performance status (ECOG Gr. 3 or worse) or baseline functional status unknown
* Bleeding disorder (INR≥1.5 or PLT\< that would preclude muscle biopsies)
* Known mitochondrial disease
* Endocrine crisis as a reason for admission
* Pregnant women

Eligibility Criteria for a control group:

Elective hip surgery patients with a very good to excellent performance status, only limited to joint pain (ECOG 0)

Where this trial is running

Prague, Czech Republic

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 Intensive Care Unit-acquired Weaknessintensive care unit-acquired weaknesscritically illskeletal muscle regenerationsatellite cells
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.