A new study by UF researchers is testing to see if resveratrol, a compound commonly found in red grapes, produces benefits in older adults.
The purpose of RIPE Trial, Resveratrol for Improved Performance in the Elderly Trial, is to see if the compound is safe for humans to consume, said Todd Manini, Ph.D. and co-prinicipal investigator of the study.
“It’s a powder compound, similar to vitamins that you would find in a drug store,” Manini said.
Resveratrol is an antioxidant thought to rescue adults from the impairments of old age, he said. The compound may help adults reduce their fatigue and improve their memory.
In previous studies, scientists found the compound was safe for animals and improved their memory. The trial will monitor participants’ memories with MRI scans to see how the blood is redistributed after three months, he said.
If the compound helps cells produce more energy, it may help adults have a stronger memory, too, he said. Participants will take the supplement for three months, and the researchers will follow participants for an extra month to see if there are any side effects, he said. Although resveratrol is found in red wine, the study has nothing to do with red wine, Smith said.
“If that was the case, we would have people pounding on our door,” Manini said.
