Targeting Intramuscular Adipose Quality in Aging
Washington University School of Medicine
Summary
This study will test the central hypothesis that fat within the muscle, or intramuscular adipose tissue (IMAT), exhibits elevated damage and pro-inflammatory signaling with aging, both of which are reduced by progressive resistance exercise (PRE). Sixteen older adults 65-80 years old will be recruited and complete a 12 week calf PRE intervention. Calf muscle strength, composition (measured by computed tomography) and muscle biopsies will be collected before and after the intervention. Histology, transcriptomic and secretomic tests will be completed to assess signs of damage and inflammation.
Description
Sixteen older adult (65-80 years) will be recruited from existing databases and screened for potential participation by phone. The Rapid Assessment of Physical Activity (RAPA) will be completed, to include those who are underactive (scores 3-5). Individuals who meet the inclusion criteria will attend an in-person screening where their calf muscle strength, physical performance and safety for muscle biopsy (via complete blood count with differential and prothrombin time/international normalized raio on blood draw) will be assessed. Individuals deemed safe to participate and who give informed co…
Eligibility
- Age range
- 65–80 years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- Yes
Inclusion Criteria: * Rapid Assessment of Physical Activity scores between 3 and 5 * Able to don and doff the weighted vest * Access to a smart phone and ability to navigate the phone to enter and manage a zoom intervention * Commitment and availability to attend a virtual 40-minute intervention 3x per week for 12 weeks Exclusion Criteria: * Contraindications to radiation exposure (e.g. Women who are pregnant, previous high radiation exposure) * Bleeding disorders * Lower extremity trauma/surgery/injury or neuropathy that would impact muscle structure and function or ability to complete exe…
Interventions
- OtherCalf muscle strengthening
The calf intervention will be delivered 3x/wk for 12 weeks over zoom, in small groups. There are 3 exercises 1) standing heel rise, 2) seated heel rise, and 3) long sitting ankle plantarflexion. The exercises will be overloaded using a weighted vest, body weight, and/or theraband. Exercises will be progressed as strength improves.
Location
- Washington UniversitySt Louis, Missouri