Improving heart and blood vessel health by enhancing nerve activity

Enhancing parasympathetic activity to reduce vascular oxidative stress and endothelial dysfunction

['FUNDING_R01'] · VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER · NIH-10857152

This study is looking at how a medication called galantamine can help improve heart health by reducing stress in blood vessels, especially for African Americans who often face higher risks of heart problems.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorVANDERBILT UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER (nih funded)
Locations1 site (NASHVILLE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10857152 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how enhancing the activity of the parasympathetic nervous system can reduce oxidative stress and improve endothelial function, which is crucial for cardiovascular health. The study focuses on African Americans, who are known to have higher rates of cardiovascular disease and impaired endothelial function. By using an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor called galantamine, the research aims to block harmful oxidative stress and inflammation in blood vessels. Patients may be monitored for changes in vascular reactivity and overall cardiovascular health during the treatment period.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are African American individuals who are at risk for cardiovascular disease and have signs of endothelial dysfunction.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have endothelial dysfunction or are not of African American descent may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve cardiovascular health and reduce disease risk for patients, particularly in African American populations.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results in using similar approaches to enhance parasympathetic activity and improve cardiovascular outcomes, particularly in populations with known disparities.

Where this research is happening

NASHVILLE, 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 →

Conditions: Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease, atherosclerotic disease, atherosclerotic vascular disease

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.