NCT07848438 · University of Michigan
Sex Hormones and Aging
What this study is about
This study investigates the influence of sex hormones and exercise on age-related neuromuscular decline in females. Specifically, the research aims to evaluate how hormonal variations impact both age-associated neuromuscular decline and the subsequent adaptations to exercise and resistance training.
View original scientific description
This study investigates the influence of sex hormones and exercise on age-related neuromuscular decline in females. Specifically, the research aims to evaluate how hormonal variations impact both age-associated neuromuscular decline and the subsequent adaptations to exercise and resistance training. Age-related declines in neuromuscular function are especially pronounced in females, potentially due to the sharp drop in estradiol after menopause. This project will compare postmenopausal females who have not taken hormonal therapy (HT) to age-matched females taking HT.
Interventions
OTHER
HRT: High-Resistance Strength Training
Each participant will attend 2 sessions per week for 8 weeks. A training session will start with a 10-minute full body dynamic warm-up (e.g., bodyweight movements and mobility exercises). The participant will then perform bilateral lower body high-resistance strength training exercises (leg extension and leg press) for 4 sets of 8-10 repetitions.
OTHER
Control: High-Resistance Strength Training
Each participant will attend 2 sessions per week for 8 weeks. A training session will start with a 10-minute full body dynamic warm-up (e.g., bodyweight movements and mobility exercises). The participant will then perform bilateral lower body high-resistance strength training exercises (leg extension and leg press) for 4 sets of 8-10 repetitions.
Primary outcome measures
Strength - Maximal Voluntary Contraction (MVC)
Time frame: One session before and then after 8 weeks of training
Changes in MVC after 8 weeks resistance training. MVC is the greatest force generated during a brief isometric contraction.
Fatigability - Reduction in Power
Time frame: One session before and then after 8 weeks of training
Reduction in limb power and maximal force in response to a dynamic fatiguing contraction.
Strength - 1 Repetition Maximum
Time frame: One session before and then after 8 weeks of training
Reduction in limb power and maximal force in response to a dynamic fatiguing contraction
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Exclusion criteria
- Females who are pregnant or likely to be pregnant. Female subjects of childbearing age will be asked of the possibility of pregnancy and will be excluded from the study if they are pregnant or become pregnant during the study.
- Females who are not currently taking HT but have taken HT in the past 5 years.
- Severe obesity (body mass index, BMI, \> 45 kg/m2): this will be calculated from measured height and weight
- Untreated hypothyroidism
- Uncontrolled blood pressure (\>160/100 mmHg at rest)
- Epilepsy or increased risk of seizures
- Metal implants in the body, excluding the mouth
- Head injury in the past 6 months
- People who are taking any of the following medications: Medications that affect cortical excitability, Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use in the past 24 hours or chronic use of NSAIDs, Beta blockers or any other heart rate stabilizing medications, Any neurological, cardiovascular or musculoskeletal disease that precludes exercise testing
Where
- Ann Arbor, Michigan
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Sep 30, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations