Maize Flour Type and Muscle Protein Synthesis
(PRO-CORN Trial)
Trial Summary
What is the purpose of this trial?
The purpose of the study is to quantify and compare the serum nutrient and hormonal profile, and muscle protein synthesis rates, in response to consuming isonitrogenous amounts of a traditional East African meal, mung bean stew with a traditional African corn bread made from two different kinds of maize (whole corn flour or refined). Specific aim 1: Describe the post-prandial nutrient and hormonal profile in serum in the 3 hours following consumption of a portion of mung bean stew with traditional African corn bread made with either whole grain maize flour or refined maize flour. Specific aim 2: Compare the ability a portion of mung bean stew and traditional African corn bread made with either whole grain maize flour or refined maize flour to activate mTORC1-specific and whole muscle protein synthesis in an in vitro model of muscle.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial requires that you are not taking any medication that may interfere with the study, so you might need to stop certain medications. It's best to discuss your current medications with the study team to see if they are allowed.
What data supports the effectiveness of the treatment involving refined maize flour and whole grain flour on muscle protein synthesis?
The research suggests that food intake, particularly protein ingestion, directly stimulates muscle protein synthesis, which is important for maintaining muscle mass. While the studies focus on protein sources like dairy and mycoprotein, they highlight the role of dietary protein in enhancing muscle protein synthesis, which could be relevant to the effects of maize flour types if they contribute to overall protein intake.12345
Is maize flour safe for human consumption?
The studies reviewed focus on the nutritional quality and protein content of different maize varieties, but they do not report any safety concerns for human consumption. Maize flour, including biofortified varieties, is generally accepted and consumed widely, suggesting it is safe for human use.678910
How does the treatment using refined and whole grain maize flour differ from other treatments for muscle protein synthesis?
This treatment is unique because it uses different types of maize flour, which vary in protein quality and amino acid content, to potentially enhance muscle protein synthesis. Quality Protein Maize (QPM) is particularly notable for its higher levels of essential amino acids like lysine and tryptophan, which are often limited in regular maize, making it a potentially more effective option for improving protein intake and synthesis.67111213
Research Team
Keith Baar
Principal Investigator
University of California, Davis
Eligibility Criteria
This trial is for individuals who can safely consume a traditional East African meal of mung bean stew with corn bread. There are no specific inclusion or exclusion criteria provided, so participants should generally be healthy and not have food intolerances that would affect the study.Inclusion Criteria
Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Baseline Assessment
Participants' height and weight are measured, and a questionnaire on physical activity and dietary habits is completed.
Test Meal and Blood Sampling
Participants consume a test meal and undergo postprandial blood draws to assess nutrient and hormonal profiles.
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after the test meal.
Treatment Details
Interventions
- Refined maize flour
- Whole grain flour
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of California, Davis
Lead Sponsor