Study to Test a 10-Week Leucine Supplement Plan for Muscle Growth in Children Ages 4 to 10 With Spastic Cerebral Palsy

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to explore the feasibility of a 10-week nutritional supplement plan using leucine to support muscle growth in children diagnosed with spastic cerebral palsy. Cerebral palsy is a leading cause of physical disability in childhood, characterized by muscle weakness and spasticity, with muscle growth impairments evident at young ages. The study focuses on how leucine, a key amino acid involved in muscle protein synthesis, may affect macroscopic muscle properties in this population. Participants will take a daily leucine supplement at a dose of 150 mg per kilogram of body weight for 10 weeks. This intervention group will be monitored to assess adherence to the supplementation plan and to observe any changes in muscle characteristics, including muscle volume, length, cross-sectional area, and echo-intensity of the medial gastrocnemius muscle. The study also includes evaluations of functional strength and overall body composition, with nutritional status and safety monitored through blood and urine tests. During the study, children will undergo assessments at the start and end of the 10-week period, including muscle imaging and functional tests. Researchers will collect 3-day food records before starting the supplement plan to understand baseline nutrition. The study will measure participant adherence and muscle changes to evaluate feasibility and gather data for future research. Safety monitoring includes blood and urine sampling to ensure suitability for the supplementation.

Feasibility Nutritional Supplements for Muscle Growth in CP