Loughborough University academics are looking for volunteers for a study into the roles of age and physical activity in muscle growth after eating.
Muscle plays an essential role in metabolic control and healthy ageing. Muscle mass and function can be influenced by both physical activity and nutrition. Ageing reduces the effectiveness of nutrition to stimulate muscle growth, which leads to loss in muscle mass and function and eventual frailty. We are interested in whether physical activity/exercise training can offset this normal ageing process.
For this study, we are looking for young (18-25) active and older (65-80) active and inactive men to participate. This study aims to investigate why muscles of elderly individuals are less responsive to nutrition stimulation. We are also interested in finding out whether age-related resistance to nutrient stimulation can be overcome by regular physical activity. To achieve these aims, we are looking for healthy, non-smoking individuals.
The exclusion criteria include:
- allergy to lidocaine or any of the ingredients
- infection or swelling of the upper legs
- blood infections or disorders
- low blood pressure
- disease of the brain or spinal cord
- sudden frequent episodes of loss of consciousness
- myasthenia gravis, a severe muscle weakness
- heart problems
Volunteers will be asked to visit Loughborough University on two occasions: the first being a one-hour screening visit to include assessment of muscle function and the second being a six-hour experiment which includes the collection of blood and three small muscle tissue samples. During the experimental visit participants will consume a drink containing 15 grams of protein.
For more information, please contact Stephanie Gagnon (S.Gagnon@lboro.ac.uk; 07453 305 449).