UF seeking older adult volunteers for trial to study age-related memory loss
Todd Manini, Ph.D., assistant professors of aging and geriatric research in UF’s College of Medicine. Photo by: Czerne Reid/University of Florida
Scientists at the University of Florida's Institute on Aging are now recruiting participants for a clinical trial to test whether resveratrol, a compound found in red wine and dark-skinned grapes, can help improve memory and physical functioning in older adults.
In animal studies, resveratrol has been shown to improve memory and reasoning skills. It also protects against cardiovascular diseases, cancers and other age-related changes. Resveratrol is one of a small number of compounds shown to extend lifespan in flies, fish and other organisms.
In humans, the UF study is among the first randomized controlled trials to test the effects of resveratrol supplementation on memory performance. Ultimately, the findings could lead to the development of interventions that can preserve both cognitive and physical function in older adults.
"If resveratrol is found to have a beneficial impact, the supplement might be a potential treatment option to fight age-related cognitive decline," said Todd Manini, Ph.D., who is co-principal investigator along with Steve Anton, Ph.D. Both are assistant professors of aging and geriatric research in UF's College of Medicine.
Titled the Resveratrol for Improved Performance in the Elderly Trial, or RIPE Trial, the study will yield insights about what specific areas of the brain resveratrol affects and the mechanisms through which it produces observed results. In addition to memory, the study also will highlight other areas of possible impact such as reducing fatigue levels and fat content of muscles.
Many of the processes that lead to decline in memory, attention and related factors are linked to the negative effects of oxidative stress and chronic inflammation. Resveratrol is thought to have potent antioxidant properties and to improve the functioning of mitochondria, the energy centers of cells. It is not yet known what effect this will have on humans.
The RIPE Trial seeks 30 volunteers between the ages of 65 and 100 who lead a sedentary lifestyle to take part in the phase I trial, which will last for 12 weeks. Participants must be non-smokers who do not regularly drink wine, and be able to walk a mile.
Some participants will be randomly assigned to take a resveratrol-containing dietary supplement while others will be assigned to a control group that will receive a product that does not contain resveratrol.
Study participants will complete questionnaires, have their blood and urine tested and undergo MRI scans before and after receiving supplements. They will be monitored closely for safety and toxicity.
Two doses of resveratrol will be tested, and the data obtained will help researchers identify what dosage is optimal for affecting memory.
The study is funded by UF's McKnight Brain Institute and Pepper Older Americans Independence Center.
To volunteer or learn more about the RIPE Trial, call 352-273-5919.