Actively Recruiting
Vasodilatory Effects of Light on Peripheral Artery Disease
Led by University of Alabama at Birmingham · Updated on 2026-05-01
40
Participants Needed
1
Research Sites
N/A
Total Duration
On this page
AI-Summary
What this Trial Is About
Researchers are investigating the effects of red light treatment on blood flow in people with peripheral artery disease. This study aims to measure changes in blood flow in the calf muscle (gastrocnemius) using a special ultrasound technique before and after exposure to 670 nm wavelength light. The study is designed to better understand how this light exposure may influence blood flow and nitric oxide levels in patients with this condition. Participants will receive a single 5-minute exposure of red light applied just above the calf muscle. Blood flow will be measured using an ultrasound contrast agent called octafluoropropane infused into the bloodstream. Blood samples will also be taken to measure nitric oxide metabolites before and after the light exposure. Most participants will have one study visit, but if needed, some may be asked to return for a second visit at least one week later to ensure consistent data collection. During the study visit(s), participants will have blood flow measured at baseline, during the 5 minutes of light exposure, and up to 1 minute after the light is turned off. Blood samples for nitric oxide metabolite measurement will be collected before and 1 minute after the light exposure. The study involves minimal risk and participation lasts for the duration of the visit(s), with careful monitoring of blood flow and biochemical markers related to vascular function.
CONDITIONS
Brief Title
Red Light Treatment in Peripheral Artery Disease
Who Can Participate
Eligibility Criteria
You may qualify if you...
- Participants between 18 and 85 years old
- Diagnosed with peripheral artery disease defined by an Ankle Brachial Index less than 0.9 or greater than 1.1 at rest or during treadmill exercise
- Men and women of all ethnicities
You will not qualify if you...
- Age under 18 or over 85 years
- Unable to understand the consent process
- Cannot read or speak English
- Active pregnancy
- Hypersensitivity to perflutren contrast agents
- Pulmonary hypertension
- Active illicit drug use
- Untreated blood pressure over 160/95
- Sickle cell disease
- History of intracardiac shunt
- Neurological diseases such as spinal stenosis or unspecified pain disorders
- Any uncontrolled medical conditions
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 - 1 day
Participants receive red light treatment applied over the gastrocnemius muscle while blood flow and nitric oxide metabolites are measured before, during, and after the light exposure.
1 visit (in-person), with a possible second visit at least one week later if additional data collection is needed
Trial Site Locations
Total: 1 location
1
Medical College of Wisconsin
Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States, 53226
Actively Recruiting
Research Team
N
Nicole L Lohr, MD,PHD
How is the study designed?
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Masking
NONE
Allocation
NA
Model
SINGLE_GROUP
Primary Purpose
BASIC_SCIENCE
Number of Arms
1
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