Protein and Skeletal Muscle in Older Twins: Role of the Gut Microbiome

Research Question: Does the gut microbiome contribute to muscle anabolic resistance to protein supplementation in older adults? Background: Loss of muscle occurs with age and skeletal muscle in older adults can display anabolic resistance to protein in diet. It has been hypothesised that the gut microbiome may play a role in this relationship and therefore could be targeted. Aim: This trial aims to test whether modulation of the gut microbiome, in addition to protein supplementation, can improve skeletal muscle function versus protein supplementation alone. Methods: Double blinded, randomised, placebo controlled, dietary intervention study. Twin pairs will be randomised to either receive protein supplementation plus placebo or protein supplementation plus a gut microbiome modulator (prebiotic plus probiotic) for 12 weeks. Primary outcome will be muscle function measured using chair-rise time. Conclusion: Anabolic resistance warrants further characterisation to guide future therapeutic interventions, especially considering its role in the development of disability, sarcopenia and frailty.