MULTIPLE StRIDE
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Using Biomarkers of Ageing to understand Sarcopenia and the Relationships with Inactivity, Depressive symptoms and Exhaustion in people living with Multiple Long Term Conditions – a proof of concept study
IRAS ID
341700
Contact name
Claire McDonald
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Newcastle Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 9 months, 30 days
Research summary
The number of people living with multiple long-term conditions (MLTC) is increasing. MLTC becomes more common as we age. Ageing is associated with increased inflammation, damage to our cells and DNA causing our cells to work less effectively. These age related biological changes have also been associated with MLTC.
Both ageing and MLTC have been associated with loss of muscle strength, fatigue, depressive symptoms, and decreased activity. We suspect that these symptoms may be linked to biological changes commonly associated with ageing. Reduced physical activity may further exacerbate progression of MLTC. Conversely increased activity may have protective effects, potentially by modifying these age related biological changes.
Previous studies have looked at these symptoms in isolation or focused on how social factors may explain complex connections. This study aims to better understand the shared underlying biological mechanisms between muscle strength, fatigue, depressive symptoms and activity in MLTC.
We aim to recruit 60 people from the MULTIPLE Registry – a database of people living with MLTC who have expressed an interest in taking part in research. We will assess participants, mood, levels of fatigue, muscle strength, endurance, muscle size and measure physical using a small sensor attached to the lower back. We will collect blood samples to measure a series of blood tests that are markers of biological ageing.
This study will help us to begin to understand the connections between biological ageing and the common symptoms of fatigue, low mood, and loss of strength in people with MLTC, in turn helping to identify potential targets for treatments to improve muscle strength, fatigue and mood all with a single treatment. This would help many people with MLTC to stay healthy and active for longer, without the burden of taking multiple different medications for each condition.
REC name
North East - Tyne & Wear South Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
24/NE/0150
Date of REC Opinion
27 Sep 2024
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion