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The Moody Longevity Trial: Tirzepatide (Zepbound) to Slow Biological Aging A New Research Study at The University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) for Adults Ages 55–70
Can a Medication for Weight Loss Help You Age Better?
We are inviting adults between 55 and 70 years old with an indication for tirzepatide (Zepbound) weight loss therapy to participate in a groundbreaking research study.
We’re exploring whether tirzepatide (Zepbound), a medication used for weight loss, can do more than help shed pounds—can it slow or reverse biological aging and improve your health from the inside out?
Why This Study?
As we age, our bodies—and even our cells—change in ways that affect how we feel, think, and move. Scientists now have tools to measure biological aging using something called epigenetic clocks, which look at DNA markers that change over time.
We’re studying whether a 24-week course of tirzepatide (Zepbound) and 12 weeks of follow up can:
- Slow or reverse biological aging Improve energy, physical function, and mobility
- Support brain health and cognitive function Improve mood and overall quality of life
- Reduce inflammation and aging-related biomarkers
- Be well-tolerated and acceptable for people your age
Who Can Join?
We’re looking for individuals who:
- Are 55–70 years old
- Have a BMI ≥30, or ≥27 with a weight-related condition (like high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol)
- Have been on a stable dose of medications (if any) for at least 12 weeks
- Are not using insulin or planning to start an intensive weight-loss or exercise program
- Are not pregnant or planning pregnancy (see details below)
If this sounds like you, you could help us explore a whole new approach to healthy aging.
What You’ll Do
- Complete a 24-week course of tirzepatide and 12 weeks of follow up
- Participate in study visits where we’ll collect simple biological samples
- Complete surveys about how you feel, move, and think
- Attend required follow-up visits from weeks 24 to 36 (after stopping the medication)
- We’ll measure changes in:
- DNA methylation clocks (a tool for estimating biological age)
- Physical function and activity levels
- Inflammatory and brain health markers
- Weight, BMI, and quality of life
You’ll receive compensation for your time and travel.
Who Should Not Participate?
You may not be eligible if you:
- Have a BMI over 35
- Have uncontrolled heart, metabolic, or cognitive conditions
- Use insulin, or medications that significantly affect weight
- Are planning major lifestyle changes (e.g., starting keto or intensive workouts)
- Have a history of eating disorders, bariatric surgery, or pancreatitis
- Are taking certain hormones, steroids, or investigational medications
- Are pregnant, nursing, or planning pregnancy (or capable of pregnancy without contraception)
We’ll go over the full list with you during the screening.
Why This Study Matters
This is one of the first studies of its kind. By participating, you’ll help researchers understand whether tirzepatide has potential not just for weight loss, but for slowing aging itself. That knowledge could lead to better therapies, better care, and a better future for people like you.
Contact Us
Phone: (409) 772-1218
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