NCT06628349 · Texas A&M University
Prandial Metabolic Phenotyping in Sarcopenic Older Adults Comparing Plant Based and Whey Based Protein
What this study is about
The researchers overall objective is to determine whether plant and animal protein based proteins affect the anabolic responses across aging populations differently due to specific changes in the essential amino acids (EAA) and non-essential amino acids (NEAA) kinetic responses.
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The researchers overall objective is to determine whether plant and animal protein based proteins affect the anabolic responses across aging populations differently due to specific changes in the essential amino acids (EAA) and non-essential amino acids (NEAA) kinetic responses. The researchers central hypothesis is that a high EAA to NEAA ratio in a protein meal is related to higher anabolic response to the meal. The researchers also hypothesize that the type of NEAA in a protein meal also affects the anabolic capacity of the meal. The researchers rationale is that finding the amino acid composition of a meal that will maximally induce protein anabolism will guide novel nutritional approaches to prevent and treat sarcopenia, thereby reducing both overall economic burden and improving individual patient outcomes.
Interventions
DIETARY_SUPPLEMENT
Whey Protein Isolate 90%
Commercially available animal based protein powders
DIETARY_SUPPLEMENT
Soy Protein Isolate (90% Protein)
Commercially available plant based protein powders
DIETARY_SUPPLEMENT
Organic Pea Protein Isolate
Commercially available plant based protein powders
DIETARY_SUPPLEMENT
Placebo (Water)
Normal drinking water
Primary outcome measures
Protein and amino acid synthesis capacity of plant-based and animal-based protein in older adults with or without sarcopenia measured by the use of stable isotope tracers
Time frame: 4 weeks
A novel stable isotope technique will be used to assess simultaneously the anabolic response and whole body production rates of a variety of amino acids to intake of both dietary proteins in sarcopenic older participants. The samples will be stored in laboratory freezers and the amino acid isotope enrichments and concentrations analyzed by Liquid Chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). The researchers will then conduct LC-MS/MS analysis, peak integration, calculation of amino acid concentrations and whole body productions from raw data, and use the results for preparation of papers for presentation, publication, and final reports. The researchers main hypothesis is that plant-based protein induces less protein anabolism, due to lower whole body production of essential amino acids (EAA) and higher production of non-essential amino acids (NEAA) as compared to dairy protein.
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.
Inclusion criteria
- Age 50-95 years old
- Diagnosis of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD); COPD group only
- Stable body-weight (±5%) for the past 3 months
- Ability to walk, sit down, and stand up (independently or with walking assistance device)
- Willingness to lay supine in bed for up to 6 hours
- Willingness and ability to comply with the protocol
Exclusion criteria
- Established diagnosis and active treatment of chronic disease: Insulin dependent diabetes mellitus, active malignancy, heart disease, kidney disease, liver disease, HIV/AIDS, Asthma (moderate to severe), Hep (A,B, or C)
- History of untreated metabolic disease including hepatic or renal disorder
- Presence of acute illness or metabolically unstable chronic illness
- Hysterectomy
- Active dependence of alcohol or drugs
- Use of short course of oral corticosteroids within 4 weeks preceding study day
- Current use of long-term oral corticosteroids
- Use of protein or amino acids containing nutritional supplements within 5 days of the first study day
- Presence of fever within the last 3 days
- Planned elective surgery requiring 2 or more days of hospitalization during the entire study
- (Possible) pregnancy
- Failure to give informed consent or Investigator's uncertainty about the willingness or ability of the subject
- Already enrolled in another clinical trial
- Any condition according to the PI or nurse that was found during the screening visit, that would interfere with the study or safety of the patient
- Known allergy to any of the components of the feeding (soy, pea, or whey - dairy)
- Established daily diet of vegetarian / vegan composition
- \<23 MoCa score
Where
- College Station, Texas
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 Nov 25, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations