Sealy Center on Aging

BRASS (Bed Rest in Accelerated Sarcopenia study)

Study Explores the Implications of Physical Inactivity in the Aging Population

Physical inactivity, such as bed rest, is one of the major causes of Sarcopenia, the loss of muscle mass in older adults. While bed rest may be effective to comfort from an illness or condition, it is also one of the major causes of strength and functional decline in seniors, increasing the risk of falls, fractures, and inability to perform daily activities without aid.

The purpose of the study is to identify the causes that accelerate the loss of muscle mass and function with short-term bed rest, a time frame that is modeled after what some may experience during a short hospitalization. This study seeks individuals, ages 60-85 years old with Type 2 Diabetes, not taking insulin. Participants should not have any other major disease except Diabetes. They are asked to attend 2 outpatient clinic visits and one 7-day in-clinic admission where 5 of those days will require complete bed rest (i.e. cannot leave the bed and will be using a bedside commode during this time).

Why Participate?

• You may help prevent and treat accelerated loss of muscle mass and help find methods for older adults to maintain their physical independence.
• You will be helping researchers potentially discover treatments for those who have experienced a period of physical inactivity (such as bed rest or hospitalization).
• You will be compensated for completing this study.
• You will be helping to advance medical research.

Your Rights

• If you decide to participate in the study and later feel that you no longer wish to be part of it, you may withdraw at any time.
• Your records relating to this study and any other information received will be kept strictly confidential, except as required by law.
• Qualified health professionals will monitor your health as it relates to the study.

Who Can Participate?

• Men and women, aged 60-85, with Type 2 Diabetes, who are not taking insulin can participate. To qualify for this study, you should not have any other major medical condition except Type 2 Diabetes.
• Volunteers must be able to perform daily activities with minimal to no assistance needed.
• Must be able to attend 2 outpatient clinic visits and one 7-day in-clinic admission where 5 of those days will require you to be in complete bed rest (i.e. you cannot leave the bed and will be using a bedside commode during this time). You can still study, work, watch movies, etc. You can bring your personal entertainment device. The study will provide you with your own room with a tv.

This study is supported by a grant. 
Elena Volpi, MD, PhD is the Principal Investigator of this study.

Studies in Recruitment