Investigating how inflammation affects blood pressure responses during exercise in patients with peripheral artery disease.

Neuroinflammation as a mediator of the exaggerated Piezo2 and Exercise Pressor Reflex in Peripheral Artery Disease

NIH-funded research University of Minnesota · NIH-10995706

This study is looking at how inflammation in the muscles of people with peripheral artery disease (PAD) causes their blood pressure to rise too much when they exercise, and it hopes to find ways to make exercising safer for them by understanding a specific receptor involved in this process.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Minnesota NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Minneapolis, United States)
Project IDNIH-10995706 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how inflammation in the muscles of patients with peripheral artery disease (PAD) leads to an exaggerated increase in blood pressure during exercise. The study examines the role of a specific receptor, Piezo2, which may be responsible for this heightened response. By using animal models and analyzing inflammatory markers, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms behind this phenomenon. The ultimate goal is to develop therapies that can help normalize blood pressure responses during physical activity, making exercise safer for PAD patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with peripheral artery disease who experience heightened blood pressure responses during exercise.

Not a fit: Patients without peripheral artery disease or those who do not experience exercise-induced blood pressure elevation may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer exercise recommendations and improved treatment options for patients with peripheral artery disease.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that targeting inflammatory pathways can improve outcomes in cardiovascular conditions, suggesting potential success for this approach.

Where this research is happening

Minneapolis, 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.
Conditions Cardiovascular Diseasescardiovascular disorder
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 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.