With aging, there is a decrease in muscle mass and function especially in the energy
storehouses of cells called mitochondria. Amino acids, the building blocks of protein, and
insulin have been shown to increase muscle mitochondrial protein synthesis and thereby
function. Branched chain amino acids which can only be provided in the diet seem to be key in
this process. Therefore in our study, our aim is to study the effect of branched chain amino
acids on muscle mitochondrial protein synthesis in both the young and elderly. By doing so,
we can then elucidate if branched chain amino acid supplementation has future potential in
improving quality of life and performance in the elderly. The study will involve blood
sampling and needle muscle biopsy.
Phase:
N/A
Accepts Healthy Volunteers?
Accepts Healthy Volunteers
Details
Lead Sponsor:
Mayo Clinic
Criteria
Young (age 18-30) or old (age 65-80) Body mass index <30