How plant-based diets affect heart health

Proteomic and epigenetic alterations associated with plant-based diets and CVD

['FUNDING_CAREER'] · UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON · NIH-11258205

This study is looking at how eating plant-based foods might affect heart health by exploring the proteins and genetic changes linked to different plant-based diets, and it's designed for people interested in understanding how their food choices can impact their risk of heart disease.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_CAREER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SEATTLE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11258205 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the relationship between plant-based diets and cardiovascular disease (CVD) by examining the underlying biological mechanisms. It aims to identify specific proteins and epigenetic changes associated with different types of plant-based diets using advanced techniques like proteomics and DNA methylation analysis. The study will utilize data from well-established cohorts, including the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities study, to explore how these dietary patterns influence heart health over time.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are middle-aged individuals, particularly African American and European American participants, who are interested in the effects of their diet on heart health.

Not a fit: Patients who do not follow a plant-based diet or have existing severe cardiovascular conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better dietary recommendations that significantly reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the health benefits of plant-based diets, but this specific approach using proteomics and epigenetics is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

SEATTLE, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.