Using NAD+ supplements and exercise to boost fitness in Friedreich's Ataxia
Official title: NAD+ precursor supplementation with exercise training to improve aerobic capacity in Friedreich's Ataxia
Funded at Children's Hosp of Philadelphia · NIH-10756492 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at whether taking NAD+ supplements along with exercise can help people with Friedreich's Ataxia breathe better and have more energy for daily activities.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Children's Hosp of Philadelphia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2020 |
| Project end | December 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $796,719 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HL149722-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-10756492 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults and children diagnosed with Friedreich's Ataxia who experience low aerobic capacity.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with advanced heart failure or those who do not have Friedreich's Ataxia may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how NAD+ precursor supplementation combined with exercise training can improve aerobic capacity in individuals with Friedreich's Ataxia (FA). The study aims to address the common issue of low maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) in FA patients, which affects their ability to perform daily activities. By focusing on enhancing muscle metabolism and aerobic capacity, the research seeks to provide a potential intervention before the onset of heart failure, a significant complication of FA. Participants will engage in exercise regimens while receiving NAD+ supplements to evaluate improvements in their functional abilities.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance the physical fitness and daily functioning of patients with Friedreich's Ataxia.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that improving muscle metabolism can enhance functional status in patients with other forms of heart failure, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Children's Hosp of Philadelphia
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mccormack, Shana Erin — Children's Hosp of Philadelphia
- Study coordinator: Mccormack, Shana Erin
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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.