Sarcopenia, the progressive loss of muscle strength and physical function, is a complication of COPD that doesn’t get a lot of attention. Now, researchers at University Hospital of Leicester NHS Trust in Leicester, England, are looking to change that.
According to a press release, the researchers have finished recruitment for the Maintaining Integrity of Muscle in COPD trial (MINT-COPD).
Neil Greening, MD, chief investigator of the study and honorary consultant respiratory physician at University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust, said sarcopenia occurs frequently in COPD patients and can lead to frailty, loss of independence and increased risk of adverse health outcomes.
“An effective therapy targeting sarcopenia in these patients could improve recovery from hospitalization, long-term outcomes and quality of life for many people, which is why this trial is so vital,” he said.
The MINT-COPD phase 2 trial is evaluating RJx-01, which has been developed from diabetes drug metformin and dementia drug galantamine. Its aim is to target key biological drivers of muscle decline including inflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, fibrosis and neuromuscular impairment. It is a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial that will evaluate the treatment for safety, tolerability, muscle strength, physical function and fatigue resistance.
The results of the phase 2 MINT trial are expected to be released in early 2027.
