The research studies we do are nutrition studies in which we examine the effects of protein meals on the buildup and breakdown of proteins in the body. Importantly, proteins are the building blocks of muscles. Often we also assess body composition and muscle function.
If you are interested in nutrition and research, we would like to invite you to participate in one of our research projects.
For all our studies compensation is provided according to time and effort. For more information, or if you would like to know whether you qualify, please call at 979-422-1789 or email us at research@ctral.org.
Invitation for Healthy Adults Ages 18-40
Participants will complete 6 visits over 4 weeks to research how immunization affects the body. If you complete all 6 visits, you will earn up to $380. The immunization you may have is one of the following: Typhoid, Pneumonia, or normal saline. All vaccines are FDA approved and are actively administered across the U.S. On your first study day we will go over the study in more detail with you as well do a whole body scan that uses very low levels of x-rays to measure your body’s composition. We ask that on your first study day that you bring a personal laptop (operating system compatible with MacOS or Windows). Every study day we will have you do a breath and vital sign collection while lying in a bed. Additionally, we will ask for you to wear 3 smart devices across the 4 weeks; one ring, one watch band, and one band that goes around your chest. These devices will help us get an idea of your body’s physiology. If you would like to provided your basic eligibility information in our online system, please click here to submit it.
Take a look at our Flyer! PREP DOD
Participants with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
Individuals with an established diagnosis of COPD, over 45 years old, willing to take a fiber supplement.
The purpose of this study is to understand the metabolism of short chain fatty acids after supplementation in people with and without COPD.
Take a look at our Flyer! 57 – Fiber Flyer 2020
Invite to patients willing to particpate in Circuit Exercise Study
Participants will complete a screening visit and 2 study days over a period of approximately 8 weeks. The screening visit will explain the research, tests and procedures. We will also get a personal health history and use of medication. Each study day will begin early in the day and you will be fasted. Your body composition, well-being, and daily functioning will be measured. You will have an IV placed for providing a stable tracer solution and blood sampling to measure your metabolism. After your first study visit, you will begin a resistance circuit-exercise program. These exercises will be supervised and completed either at our facility or at home through video conferencing.
Take a look at our Flyer! 52-Circuit COPD Flyer 2020
Invite to patients with established diagnosis of Diabetes Mellitus Type 2
Individuals with an establisged diagnosis of DMII and over 45 years olf. The purpose of this study is to understand the changes in amino acid and energy metabolism in type II diabetes that contribute to the negative outcomes of the condition. Also, to potentially identify a nutritional therapeutic intervention to improve the outcomes of type II diabetes.
Take a look at our Flyer! 50-T2D Flier 2019
What will exclude me?
A diagnosis of Diabetes Mellitus Type 1.
Invite to all interested participants 35 and older
The Center for Translational Research in Aging and Longevity is collaborating with The Lifespan Cognitive & Motor NeuroImaging Lab to conduct a study on how the brain changes during adulthood, and in older adults. This study is investigating how different regions of the brain change over time, and contribute to performance in adults over age 35. You will fill out several questionnaires, perform a balance assessment, and undergo a brain scan (MRI) during which we will ask you to perform several computer tasks. The study day will last for about 4 to 4.5 hours, and will take place over 2 days. We will also ask you to come back every year, for two years. All research will be conducted on the Texas A&M University Campus in the HEEP building and at the Texas A&M Institute for Preclinical Studies. We will reimburse individuals for parking, and you will be compensated for your time ($25/hour). If you are interested, or for further questions, please contact us via phone or email.