Aging and Physical Function

A central goal of our research is to understand the mechanisms underlying the decline of physical function with advancing age and age-related conditions, such as heart failure and obesity.  Moreover, we are testing interventions administered in both clinical and outpatient settings that are designed to improve physical ability.

-We are currently examining the role of mitochondrial bioenergetics in the physical function of older adults hospitalized for acute decompensated heart failure, the success of rehabilitation, and prognosis following hospitalization.  

-We are testing the hypothesis that bioenergetic decline, due to alterations in mitochondrial quality control, is a major contributor to exercise intolerance in older adults with stable chronic heart failure.  We are also working with collaborators to test optimized diet and exercise based intervention strategies designed to improve the exercise capacity of these patients.