Effects of high protein diets on atherosclerosis

Dissecting the Impact of Dietary Protein on Macrophage mTOR Signaling and Atherosclerosis

Not applicable Interventional University of Missouri-Columbia · NCT05235464

This study is testing how different high protein diets affect the buildup of plaque in the arteries for people aged 45 to 75 who are overweight or obese.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment24 (estimated)
Ages45 Years to 75 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Missouri-Columbia Academic / other
Locations1 site (Columbia, Missouri)
Trial IDNCT05235464 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the impact of different types of high protein diets on atherosclerosis, a major contributor to cardiovascular diseases. Participants aged 45 to 75 with a body mass index between 25 and 40 will be assigned to consume standard meals, high animal protein meals, high plant protein meals, or high plant protein meals with added leucine. The research aims to understand how these dietary variations influence atherosclerotic plaque formation and characteristics. The findings could provide valuable insights into dietary recommendations for reducing cardiovascular disease risk.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals aged 45 to 75 with a body mass index between 25 and 40.

Not a fit: Patients outside the age range of 45 to 75 or with a body mass index below 25 or above 39.9 will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved dietary guidelines that help reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases associated with atherosclerosis.

How similar studies have performed: While there is preliminary data from animal models suggesting dietary protein may influence atherosclerosis, this specific approach in humans is novel and has not been extensively tested.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* \>=45 and \<=75 years of age
* body mass index \>=25.0 and \<40.0 kg/m2

Exclusion Criteria:

* \<45 and \>75 years of age
* body mass index \<25.0 or \>39.9 kg/m2
* plasma triglyceride \<125 mg/dl
* history of or current significant organ system dysfunction
* allergies or intolerances to meal ingredients
* use of medications or dietary supplements that could confound the study outcomes
* engaged in regular structured exercise \>150 min per week
* alcohol use disorder
* premenopausal women
* persons who smoke
* prisoners
* inability to grant voluntary informed consent

Where this trial is running

Columbia, Missouri

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 Atherosclerosis
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.