Topical RAPA

Can rapamycin (RAPA) slow down aging?

*This study is now fully enrolled and no additional subjects are currently being recruited.

Purpose of this Study

The purpose of this study is to find out if using RAPA ointment can slow down the aging of skin cells. The study will also help analyze the study ointment’s effect on reversing inflammatory changes or immune system responses thought to be associated with aging. In summary, this study will help determine what effects the RAPA ointment has on people who use it. The RAPA ointment will be applied topically to one of the participant’s forearms and matching placebo on the opposite forearm for a total of 6 months.

You may qualify if you:

• Are between the ages of 65 and 95
• Are in relatively good general health and non-smoker
• Do not have diabetes
• Are fully vaccinated against COVID-19
• Are willing to attend 8 visits in a 7-month period
  (2 in clinic and 6 visits at your home*)
• Live within 20 miles of the UTHSA to facilitate home visits*
• Have no known allergy to study medications
  (8% sirolimus/rapamycin/RAPA ointment)

You may NOT qualify if you:

• Are a smoker
• Have diabetes
• Have a history of skin ulcers or poor wound healing, or keloid formers
• Have a history of liver failure

Duration of the Study:

The study involves 8 visits (2 visits in the clinic and 6 visits at your home/phone*) over the period of approximately 7 months.

Study Procedures:

• Medical History
• Physical exam
• Electrocardiogram (EKG)
• Blood tests
• Cognitive screening

Study Location:

UT Health San Antonio and Home Visits*

*Home visits may take place at  an alternate private site if mutually convenient and within 20 miles of UTHSA.

Compensation:

Up to $350

Principal Investigator:

Ellen Kraig, PhD

Co-Principal Investigator:

Dean L. Kellogg, Jr., MD, PhD

Contact Us

For more information on this study and/or to volunteer if additional subjects are needed in the future:

• Please leave your name and contact information with Dr. Kraig at kraig@uthscsa.edu or 210-567-3818.
• If you prefer that we contact you, please fill out the form below.