Hoag Orthopedics Researchers Seek Seniors for Sarcopenic Obesity Clinical Trial

Hoag Orthopedics – the research, education and outreach not-for-profit organization founded by Hoag Orthopedic Institute physicians – is one of five national clinical investigation sites enrolling patients in a study to help older adults between 60 and 80 with sarcopenic obesity, a condition characterized by excess midsection fat and muscle loss or weakness.

The study, led by Adam Rivadeneyra, M.D., board-certified primary care sports medicine physician at Hoag Orthopedic Institute, will use a new treatment called IMM01-STEM, an investigational product derived from human stem cells. Early studies suggest it may help improve muscle mass, reduce muscle atrophy and enhance overall body composition.

Hoag Orthopedics is seeking participants between 60 and 80 who have obesity measured as excess weight around the midsection—not as measured through a traditional body mass index. Participants must have experienced muscle loss and reduced strength.

Participants will undergo an in-clinic assessment to determine eligibility. Eligible participants will receive injections of IMM01-STEM or a placebo twice a week for four weeks, with monitoring for safety. After treatment, participants will return for follow-up visits over five months to track progress and ensure safety.

If you or someone you know might be a good fit for this study, or if you would like more information, please contact Kalyn Smith, study coordinator, at 949-526-1570 or kalyn.smith@hoag.org