Effects of Angiotensin II Blockade on Exercise-Induced Red Blood Cell Production

Exercise-induced Erythropoiesis: the Mechanistic of Angiotensin II

Phase 4 Interventional The University of Hong Kong · NCT05269615

This study is testing if a medication that blocks a specific hormone can help improve red blood cell production and exercise performance in people who do endurance training.

Quick facts

PhasePhase 4
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment80 (estimated)
Ages20 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorThe University of Hong Kong Academic / other
Locations1 site (Hong Kong)
Trial IDNCT05269615 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates how blocking the angiotensin II receptor affects the body's response to endurance exercise, specifically focusing on the production of erythropoietin (EPO) and changes in red blood volume and hemoglobin levels. Participants will receive either valsartan or a placebo over an 8-week period, followed by assessments of their exercise capacity and physiological adaptations. The goal is to better understand the mechanisms behind improved cardiovascular health associated with endurance training and how hormonal regulation plays a role in this process.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are healthy individuals without any history of cardiac, pulmonary, or kidney disease who do not engage in regular intense exercise.

Not a fit: Patients who are currently involved in regular exercise training exceeding 5 hours per week may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved strategies for enhancing cardiovascular health through targeted exercise and pharmacological interventions.

How similar studies have performed: While the role of angiotensin II in erythropoiesis has been studied, this specific approach to understanding its effects in the context of exercise is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Healthy status, absence of current medical symptoms or medication limiting incremental exercise testing
* No history of cardiac, pulmonary or kidney disease.

Exclusion Criteria:

- Individuals fulfilling the above criteria but currently involved in regular exercise training (\> 5 hr/week)

Where this trial is running

Hong Kong

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Exercise Physiology
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.