Lactate may rejuvenate aging brains by boosting glucose use

NCT ID NCT07731451

Not yet recruiting Knowledge-focused Sponsor: Northern Arizona University Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jul 28, 2026 · Last updated Jul 29, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This early-phase trial tests whether lactate—a fuel produced during exercise—can improve how the aging brain uses glucose. Healthy young and older adults will receive lactate via infusion or cycling to see if it restores youthful brain metabolism. The goal is to understand if lactate can protect the brain from age-related decline and Alzheimer's disease.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: sodium lactate infusion and exercise-induced hyperlactatemia
What this could lead to: If lactate helps older brains use glucose more efficiently, it could point toward a way to maintain brain health and reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease.
What could go wrong: This is a very early, small study in healthy, fit volunteers. Results may not apply to less active or cognitively impaired people, and the effects of lactate may not persist long-term.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Motor Activity

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

AGING AGING WELL

Contacts and locations

Locations

Northern Arizona University Dept of Biological Sciences

Flagstaff, Arizona, 86011, United States

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Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.