Actively Recruiting
DNA Methylation and Vascular Function in Obesity: Role of Exercise and Weight Loss
Led by University of Illinois at Chicago · Updated on 2025-09-15
80
Participants Needed
1
Research Sites
8 weeks
Total Duration
On this page
Sponsors
U
University of Illinois at Chicago
Lead Sponsor
N
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)
Collaborating Sponsor
AI-Summary
What this Trial Is About
Researchers are investigating how DNA hypomethylation may contribute to increased inflammatory cytokine production and impaired blood vessel function in obese adults. This study focuses on adults aged 18 to 50 with obesity and aims to explore DNA hypomethylation as a potential target for non-drug interventions like aerobic exercise and weight loss. The goal is to better understand and develop strategies to prevent and treat cardiovascular disease linked to obesity. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups: one group will undergo 12 weeks of aerobic exercise training, while the other will receive standard care without exercise. The study also includes examining the effects of weight loss after bariatric surgery on DNA methylation and vascular function. These approaches are being studied to see if they can reverse DNA hypomethylation and improve blood vessel health in obese individuals. During the study, participants will have fat tissue samples collected to analyze DNA methylation patterns and will undergo assessments of vascular health using various biomarkers and flow-induced dilation measurements. The primary outcome is the DNA methylation status of adipocytokines measured between months 24 and 30. Secondary outcomes include changes in vascular health markers before and after exercise training. The study duration and follow-up ensure careful monitoring of the effects of exercise and surgical weight loss on obesity-related vascular dysfunction.
CONDITIONS
Brief Title
DNA Methylation and Vascular Function
Who Can Participate
Eligibility Criteria
You may qualify if you...
- Body mass index (BMI) of 35 kg/m2 or higher
- Between 18 and 50 years old
- Not pregnant
- Approved for bariatric surgery
You will not qualify if you...
- Current cancer, heart, kidney, liver, or gallbladder disease
- Acute or chronic inflammatory diseases including rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, autoimmune and genetic diseases
- Pregnant women
- Current smokers
- Current abuse of alcohol or drugs
AI-Screening
AI-Powered Screening
Complete this quick 3-step screening to check your eligibility
Your Study Journey
Duration - 2 to 4 weeks
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial.
1 visit (in-person)
Duration - 12 weeks
Participants undergo 12 weeks of aerobic exercise training or receive standard care to study the effects on DNA methylation and vascular function.
Weekly visits for up to 12 weeks
Duration - Up to 24 months
Participants are monitored to evaluate the long-term effects of exercise training or standard care on DNA methylation status and vascular health.
Periodic visits over 24 to 30 months
Trial Site Locations
Total: 1 location
1
University of Illinois at Chicago
Chicago, Illinois, United States, 60612
Actively Recruiting
Research Team
A
Abeer Mohamed, MD, PhD
How is the study designed?
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Masking
NONE
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Model
PARALLEL
Primary Purpose
PREVENTION
Number of Arms
2
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