Antioxidant treatment for heart failure and muscle weakness in older women
Official title: Systemic antioxidant treatment for cardiomyopathy, muscle weakness, and exercise intolerance in postmenopausal HFpEF
Funded at Duke University · NIH-10991553 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a special antioxidant treatment might help postmenopausal women with heart failure that makes it hard for them to exercise and causes muscle weakness, with the goal of finding better ways to improve their strength and stamina.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project start | December 1, 2022 |
| Project end | November 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $201,250 |
| NIH project number | 7R21AG073239-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10991553 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are postmenopausal women aged 21 and older who are experiencing heart failure with preserved ejection fraction and related muscle weakness.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not postmenopausal or do not have heart failure with preserved ejection fraction may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the effects of systemic antioxidant treatment on heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) in postmenopausal women. It focuses on understanding how this treatment can improve exercise tolerance and address muscle weakness associated with HFpEF, a condition that affects many elderly individuals. The study utilizes a preclinical model that mimics the symptoms of HFpEF, allowing researchers to explore the underlying mechanisms and potential therapeutic benefits of antioxidants. By targeting mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress, the research aims to develop a more effective treatment for this prevalent condition.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for heart failure and muscle weakness, enhancing the quality of life for older women.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results with antioxidant treatments in similar conditions, suggesting potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Duke University
Durham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ferreira, Leonardo — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Ferreira, Leonardo
Related research
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.