New exercise testing methods to identify muscle weakness versus disease

Novel cardiopulmonary exercise testing variables to differentiate neuromuscular deconditioning from disease

NIH-funded research Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center · NIH-10916426

This study is looking at a new way to test your heart and lung fitness that includes measuring your muscle strength, which can help doctors figure out if your tiredness and breathlessness are due to muscle issues or heart problems, making it easier to find the right treatment for you.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionLundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Torrance, United States)
Project IDNIH-10916426 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on improving cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) to better differentiate between neuromuscular deconditioning and cardiovascular diseases. By incorporating isokinetic measurements of muscle power into the standard CPET, the study aims to provide a more comprehensive assessment of a patient's physical capabilities. This modified testing approach will help identify the underlying causes of symptoms like breathlessness and fatigue, which can guide treatment decisions and rehabilitation strategies. The research utilizes commercially available equipment and adds minimal time to the existing testing protocol.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with unexplained dyspnea or fatigue, particularly those with suspected neuromuscular or cardiovascular conditions.

Not a fit: Patients with well-defined cardiovascular diseases or those who do not experience symptoms of fatigue or breathlessness may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate diagnoses and tailored treatment plans for patients experiencing unexplained fatigue or breathlessness.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using modified exercise testing methods to improve diagnostic accuracy, suggesting that this approach could yield significant advancements.

Where this research is happening

Torrance, 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 Cardiac DiseasesCardiac Disorders
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.