Actively Recruiting
L-serine and Strength Training Effects on Cognitive and Physical Health in Older Adults
Led by University of Vienna · Updated on 2026-03-12
126
Participants Needed
1
Research Sites
52 weeks
Total Duration
On this page
Sponsors
U
University of Vienna
Lead Sponsor
M
Medical University of Vienna
Collaborating Sponsor
AI-Summary
What this Trial Is About
Researchers are evaluating the effects of the amino acid L-serine, alone or combined with strength training, on mental performance, brain function, and physical fitness in healthy older adults aged 65 to 85. This study is a randomized, controlled, double-blind trial with three groups: placebo, L-serine only, or L-serine plus strength training. The goal is to better understand how nutrition and exercise contribute to healthy aging over 48 weeks. Participants are randomly assigned to one of three groups. One group receives a placebo (cornstarch), another receives 6 grams per day of L-serine supplement, and the third group receives 6 grams per day of L-serine plus structured strength training twice a week. These interventions last for the entire 48-week study period. During the study, cognitive tests, physical performance assessments, brain imaging (MRI, EEG), blood tests, and questionnaires on sleep and quality of life are conducted at baseline, 18 weeks, and 48 weeks. Researchers will monitor changes in cognitive function, brain structure and activity, muscle strength, body composition, markers of oxidative stress and inflammation, gene expression, gut microbiota, and other health parameters. Participant adherence to L-serine intake and strength training is also tracked to ensure compliance.
CONDITIONS
Brief Title
L-serine and Strength Training in the Elderly
Who Can Participate
Eligibility Criteria
You may qualify if you...
- Men and women between the ages of 65 and 85
- Mini-Mental-State score greater than 23
- Independently mobile without aids such as a walker or cane
You will not qualify if you...
- Chronic diseases that prevent safe medical training therapy
- Regular strength training more than once a week in the last 6 months
- Frailty Index of 3 or higher
- No written consent for physical performance testing
- Regular use of cortisone-containing medications or antibiotics
- Claustrophobia or metal/ magnetic material in or on the body preventing MRI
- Less than 70% adherence to planned L-serine intake or strength training
AI-Screening
AI-Powered Screening
Complete this quick 3-step screening to check your eligibility
Your Study Journey
Duration - 2 to 4 weeks
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial.
1 visit (in-person)
Duration - 48 weeks
Participants receive L-serine supplementation, strength training, or placebo depending on their group assignment over the course of the study.
Regular visits at baseline, 18 weeks, and 48 weeks for assessments
Trial Site Locations
Total: 1 location
1
NuTraLab
Vienna, State of Vienna, Austria, 1070
Actively Recruiting
Research Team
K
Karl-Heinz Wagner, Prof.
How is the study designed?
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Masking
QUADRUPLE
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Model
PARALLEL
Primary Purpose
BASIC_SCIENCE
Number of Arms
3
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