How mechanical signals affect heart and blood vessel responses in cardiovascular disease

Signaling pathways regulating mechanoreflex sensitization in cardiovascular disease

NIH-funded research Kansas State University · NIH-11110402

This study is looking at how exercise affects the nervous system and heart health, especially for people with peripheral artery disease, to find ways to make exercise safer and help reduce the risk of heart problems.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionKansas State University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Manhattan, United States)
Project IDNIH-11110402 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how mechanical forces during exercise can lead to increased sympathetic nervous system activity, which may cause serious cardiovascular events like heart attacks or strokes. Using a rat model that simulates peripheral artery disease, the study aims to understand the cellular signaling mechanisms in muscle sensory neurons that contribute to this heightened response. By employing various experimental techniques, the researchers will explore how these pathways can be altered to improve exercise tolerance and reduce risks for patients with cardiovascular disease.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with cardiovascular disease who experience exercise intolerance or are at risk for ischemic events during physical activity.

Not a fit: Patients without cardiovascular disease or those who do not experience exercise-related complications may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that enhance exercise tolerance and reduce the risk of serious cardiovascular events in patients.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific signaling pathways being investigated may be novel, previous research has shown that understanding mechanoreflex pathways can lead to significant advancements in cardiovascular treatment.

Where this research is happening

Manhattan, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.