Study design and methods for the pilot study of muscadine grape extract supplement to improve fatigue among older adult cancer survivors (FOCUS) trial.

INTRODUCTION

Fatigue is a prevalent symptom among both cancer survivors and older adults. Negative consequences of fatigue include increased sedentary behavior, decreased physical activity and function, and lower quality of life. Few pharmacologic interventions improve fatigue. Our preclinical and clinical data show promising effects of a muscadine grape extract supplement (MGES) on oxidative stress, mitochondrial bioenergetics, the microbiome, and the symptom of fatigue. This pilot study seeks to translate these observations to cancer survivorship by testing the preliminary effect of MGE supplementation on older adult cancer survivors with self-reported fatigue.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We designed a double-blinded placebo-controlled pilot study to evaluate preliminary efficacy of MGE supplementation versus placebo on fatigue among older adult cancer survivors (aged ≥65 years) who report baseline fatigue. Sixty-four participants will be enrolled and randomized 1:1 to twice daily MGES (four tablets twice daily) versus placebo for 12 weeks. The primary outcome is change in Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) Fatigue score from baseline to 12 weeks. Secondary outcomes are change in self-reported physical function, physical fitness (6-min walk test), self-reported physical activity, global quality of life (QOL), and the Fried frailty index. Correlative biomarker assays will assess changes in 8-hydroxy-2 deoxyguanosine, peripheral blood mitochondrial function, inflammatory markers, and the gut microbiome.

DISCUSSION

This pilot study builds on preclinical and clinical observations to estimate effects of MGE supplementation on fatigue, physical function, QOL, and biologic correlates in older adult cancer survivors. Trial registration #: CT.govNCT04495751; IND 152908.