Cardiac Rehabilitation Program Effects on Atherosclerosis, Blood Vessel Health, and Inflammation in Adults with Coronary Artery Disease Aged 40 to 70

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to evaluate the effects of a cardiovascular rehabilitation program on patients with coronary artery disease CAD aged 40 to 70 years. The study compares these patients with a reference group of healthy individuals matched by age and physical activity level. The purpose is to assess changes in artery thickness, endothelial function, inflammation, and metabolic biomarkers related to CAD. Participants include 28 CAD patients and 22 healthy controls, with evaluations conducted before and after a 12-week exercise intervention. The intervention involves a supervised exercise program combining aerobic, resistance, and flexibility training, conducted three times per week for 12 weeks. Each session lasts 60 minutes, with aerobic exercises performed at moderate intensity on a treadmill or stationary bike, and resistance exercises targeting major muscle groups. Healthy controls do not receive any intervention and serve as a comparison group. Assessments take place at two visits the first includes carotid artery ultrasound and cardiopulmonary exercise testing, while the second assesses vascular function and collects blood samples before and after moderate aerobic exercise. Participants attend two assessment visits at baseline and after the 12-week program, with at least 72 hours between visits. During visits, medical history, artery thickness, vascular function, and blood biomarkers related to inflammation, endothelial injury, and kynurenine pathway metabolites are measured. Exercise performance and oxygen consumption are also evaluated. The study monitors safety and adherence through standardized procedures and controlled environmental conditions. Total participation spans the 12-week intervention and follow-up assessments.

Cardiac Rehabilitation and Coronary Artery Disease