Development of Clinical Methods to Evaluate Neural Function in Aging

Summary

A primary focus of the University of Florida (UF) Claude D. Pepper Older Americans Independence Center (OAIC) is to build a comprehensive understanding of the causes and consequences of declining physical function and disability development among older adults. To date investigators have largely focused on sarcopenia, the age-related decline in skeletal muscle mass and strength, as the primary contributor to physical decline. However, recent findings indicate that changes in the central and/or peripheral nervous systems may play a larger role than previously thought in the development of functional limitations. These fields hold extensive promise for identifying novel contributors to age-related functional decline. Therefore, the overarching aim of this project is to develop the ability of RC1 to assess novel neural contributors to mobility and overall physical function. Importantly, the development of these techniques will provide the RC1 with the tools to evaluate the potential involvement of the central and peripheral nervous systems in age-related functional decline and disablement. The primary aim of this project is to develop techniques for quantifying peripheral motor unit number and size as well as spinal cord integrity.

Conditions

• Aging

Interventions

OTHER

High-functioning older adults

Participants with a SPPB score ≥ 11 will be categorized as high-functioning. The following test will be performed: Health and Quality of Life questionnaires, Mobility Assessments, Accelerometry, Body Composition (DEXA scan), Strength assessments, Neuromuscular stimulation, and Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

OTHER

Lower-functioning older adults

Participants with a SPPB score ≤ 8 will be categorized as lower-functioning. The following test will be performed: Health and Quality of Life questionnaires, Mobility Assessments, Accelerometry, Body Composition (DEXA scan), Strength assessments, Neuromuscular stimulation, and Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

OTHER

Young adults

Participants between the 20 - 30 years of age. The following test will be performed: Health and Quality of Life questionnaires, Mobility Assessments, Accelerometry, Body Composition (DEXA scan), Strength assessments, Neuromuscular stimulation, and Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Sponsors & Collaborators

• National Institute on Aging (NIA)

  collaborator NIH

• University of Florida

  lead OTHER

Principal Investigators

• Thomas Buford, PhD · University of Florida

Eligibility

Min Age

20 Years

Max Age

100 Years

Sex

ALL

Healthy Volunteers

Yes

Timeline & Regulatory

Start

2015-09-30

Primary Completion

2016-12-31

Completion

2017-06-02

Countries

• United States

Study Locations