Using Metformin to help older patients with heart failure
Repurposing of Metormin for Older Patients with HFpEF
This study is looking at whether Metformin, a medication usually used for diabetes, can help older adults with heart failure by improving gut health and reducing inflammation, with the hope of making them feel better and live more active lives.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Wake Forest University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Winston-Salem, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10896369 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the potential of repurposing Metformin, a common diabetes medication, to treat older patients suffering from heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). The study focuses on understanding how systemic inflammation, particularly linked to gut health, contributes to HFpEF and how Metformin may improve gut microbiome diversity and overall health. By examining the relationship between gut abnormalities and heart function, the research aims to identify new treatment strategies that could enhance patients' quality of life and physical capabilities.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults, particularly women, who have been diagnosed with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction.
Not a fit: Patients who are younger or do not have heart failure with preserved ejection fraction may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new treatment option for older patients with HFpEF, potentially improving their heart function and overall health.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using Metformin for other conditions, but this specific application for HFpEF in older adults is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Winston-Salem, United States
- Wake Forest University Health Sciences — Winston-Salem, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kitzman, Dalane W — Wake Forest University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Kitzman, Dalane W
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.