VITAL-H
The purpose of this study is exploring new therapies to help people maintain their health and independence as they age.
Researchers are studying two medications already approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) – Dapagliflozin-Farxiga and Semaglutide-Wegovy – to learn whether they may help slow age-related declines in physical function in generally healthy older adults.
Effect of Tirzepatide in Older Adults
This study is looking at how a medication called tirzepatide (brand names include Zepbound and Mounjaro) affects muscle strength, heart health, and metabolism in older adults with obesity. As people age, especially with obesity, they can lose strength and mobility. The goal of this study is to see whether this medication can help improve physical function and overall heart health, which may lead to better treatment options in the future.
FORCE
This research will create and validate a comprehensive musculoskeletal screening tool to quantify predictors of musculoskeletal peak performance and duty-limiting musculoskeletal injuries in mid-career elite Tactical Athletes.
RESTOR
This study is focused on one such family of drugs, called mTOR inhibitors. We will test two of these drugs in healthy older adults to find a protocol that can be used safely.
STARRI
To facilitate aging research by creating a resource of data and biological specimens that is representative of the diverse South Texas community, with an emphasis on underrepresented groups in aging research. This resource will be made available to researchers studying aging and related health issues.
Ultrasound and Aging
The purpose of this research study is to evaluate a new experimental device called an ultrasound bath. This device uses low-frequency ultrasound (a type of sound wave) delivered through water to determine whether it may improve muscle and physical function in older adults.
MARVEL
The purpose of this study is to evaluate whether long-term side effects from the virus that causes COVID-19 infection affects physical function and cells named senescent cells (a cell that ages and permanently stops dividing but does not die). Additionally, we will evaluate interventions in those with a body mass index > 30 to determine if these intervention might have a positive effect on whole body function.
High intensity exercise and virtual reality for balance in Parkinson’s disease
This study aims to determine the effects of aerobic exercise as a primer to add-on virtual reality (VR)-based rehabilitation on balance and postural control and neuroplasticity (ability of brain to adapt in structure and function) in those with Parkinson’s disease.
Studies Coming Soon
- Blood flow restriction to optimize balance in Parkinson’s disease. PI: Anjali Sivaramakrishnan, PT, PhD
- A smart mobile Tai-Chi platform for preventing falls in cognitive impairment. PI: Wei Liu, PhD
- Cultural tailoring of a behavioral chronic pain intervention for older adults. PI: Meredith Stensland, PhD, LMSW
- Gait monitoring for older adults. PI: Tiffany Cortes, MD
- Safety and efficacy of dietary supplement including ursolic acid. PI: Tiffany Cortes, MD
- Exploring the effects of blood flow restriction training on neuroplasticity in older adults. PI: Gustavo Almeida, PT, PhD