Factors Predicting Response to Phase II Cardiac Rehabilitation in Patients with Heart Failure and Reduced Ejection Fraction

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction HFrEF to understand how exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation ExCR affects their ability to use oxygen during exercise, measured as peak oxygen consumption VO2peak. The study aims to link changes in VO2peak with the expression of specific circulating microRNAs, which may influence how the lungs, heart, and muscles respond to exercise training. This research hopes to clarify why some patients respond well to rehabilitation while others do not. The study involves 62 patients with HFrEF who will undergo a phase II cardiac rehabilitation program. Participants will have their oxygen uptake, heart function, brain and muscle oxygen levels, and circulating microRNA levels measured before and after the exercise program using non-invasive tests during cardiopulmonary exercise testing. They will also complete a force-velocity test to help create a personalized resistance training plan. During the study, participants will be evaluated for changes in oxygen consumption and microRNA expression from the start to the end of the 21-day program. Additional assessments will measure lung ventilation, oxygen pressure differences, heart function, arterial stiffness, muscle oxygen saturation, and brain oxygen levels. The researchers will use these measurements to understand the physiological and molecular responses to exercise rehabilitation and to explore potential tailored treatment strategies. The study will run until late 2027.

Predictive Factors of Response to Phase II Cardiac Rehabilitation in Heart Failure With Reduced Ejection Fraction