Clin-STAR Awardee Spotlight
David Lynch, MD
University of North Carolina
Geriatrics
Clin-STAR Transdisciplinary Aging Research Pilot Grant - 2022
Using Metabolomics to Identify Drivers of Muscle Weakness and Functional Decline for Older Adults
Declining muscle strength in older adults is significant for patients and healthcare systems as it reduces independence and quality of life and increases the risk of hospitalization and mortality. Despite advances in understanding the mechanisms that lead to weakness, targeted treatments that alter ‘root cause’ perturbations in aging biology and improve clinical outcomes are lacking. One-size-fits-all interventions have limited success in this physiologically heterogenous population. Hence, there is a critical need to understand the clinical and biological heterogeneity in older adults with muscle weakness, to target intervention strategies. Our long-term goal is to improve older adults' physical function and quality of life through targeted interventions that alter causal biological pathways. This proposed study will harness the principles of geroscience, precision medicine, and reverse translational research to lay the foundation for future metabolically-informed interventions for older adults with declining muscle strength. Specifically, using data from the National Health and Aging Trends Survey (NHATS) and the ENabling Reduction of Low-Grade Inflammation in SEniors Pilot Study (ENRGISE) clinical trial will examine the pathway from chronic inflammation to cardiometabolic dysregulation to declining muscle strength.
Pilot Mentor
Roger A. Fielding, PhD
Tufts University
Professor, Biochemical and Molecular Nutrition
Disciplines/specialties involved in pilot:
- Geroscience
- Precision Medicine
Age-related condition studied in pilot:
- Muscle Weakness
Impact of pilot:
- Clinical
- Translation
Clin-STAR Grantee Interview
How did you first find out about Clin-STAR and the pilot grant program?
Dr. John Batsis, my primary mentor at UNC, introduced me to Clin-STAR and the pilot grant program.
What inspired you to pursue aging research and how does your perspective as a non-geriatrician specialist contribute to your research activity?
The prospect of a career in Geriatrics for me represents an opportunity to manage patients with a wide variety of complex medical issues while being entrusted with guiding patients through some of the most challenging transitions of their lives. Combining this role with research allows me to develop the skills necessary to answer questions that arise in clinical practice and to improve the care of many older adults.
In your view, what does Clin-STAR mean to the field and what does it mean for you to receive a Clin-STAR pilot grant now?
This has been a wonderful opportunity for me to learn from Dr. Fielding, a world expert in geriatrics research. I also had the opportunity to attend the Clin-STAR meeting in San Diego which was excellent for both networking and career development.
What’s exciting about your research’s potential impact to your career, field, and patients?
For me, the fields of geroscience and precision medicine are exciting as they offer the potential to help older adults maintain cognitive and physical function (healthspan) and participate in meaningful activities right up until the end of life.
How have you collaborated with your mentor or co-investigators?
I have had the opportunity to meet with Dr. Fielding virtually and in person at multiple meetings. He has helped to shape not only my Clin-STAR project but also a GEMSSTAR application and my timeline for a future career development award application.