Investigating how blood flow affects exercise in heart failure patients

The role of alpha-adrenergic vasoconstriction on blood flow to exercising skeletal muscle in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction

NIH-funded research VA Salt Lake City Healthcare System · NIH-11051005

This study is looking at how certain blood vessel responses affect blood flow to muscles when people with heart failure (HFpEF) exercise, with the goal of finding ways to help them feel better and exercise more easily.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVA Salt Lake City Healthcare System NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Salt Lake City, United States)
Project IDNIH-11051005 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how alpha-adrenergic vasoconstriction impacts blood flow to skeletal muscles during exercise in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). The study aims to explore the mechanisms behind exercise intolerance, a common and debilitating symptom in these patients. By examining the physiological responses during aerobic activities, the research seeks to identify potential new treatment strategies that could enhance exercise capacity and overall quality of life for individuals with HFpEF.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults diagnosed with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), particularly veterans.

Not a fit: Patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) may not benefit from this research as it specifically targets HFpEF.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment options that enhance exercise capacity and quality of life for patients with heart failure.

How similar studies have performed: While there is extensive literature on heart failure with reduced ejection fraction, research specifically targeting HFpEF and its unique pathophysiology is still emerging, indicating a novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Salt Lake City, 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.