Examining DNA Methylation's Role in Obesity and Vascular Health
Official title: DNA Methylation and Vascular Function in Obesity: Role of Exercise and Weight Loss
Run by University of Illinois Chicago · NCT03527420 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing if changes in DNA related to obesity can lead to heart problems and whether exercise can help improve these issues for people who are overweight.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 50 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 80 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Illinois Chicago Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Chicago, Illinois) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | October 11, 2019 |
| Main results expected | June 30, 2026 |
| Study ends | August 31, 2026 |
| Registry record updated | September 15, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT03527420 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are obese adults aged 18-50 with a BMI of 35 kg/m2 or higher who are approved for bariatric surgery.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with current inflammatory diseases, cancer, or other significant health issues may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This study investigates how DNA hypomethylation contributes to inflammation and vascular dysfunction in obese individuals, aiming to identify nonpharmacological interventions like aerobic exercise to mitigate these effects. It focuses on the relationship between obesity, epigenetic changes, and cardiovascular health, particularly how lifestyle factors can influence gene expression related to inflammation. By analyzing DNA from fat tissues, the study seeks to establish a link between hypomethylation and increased adipocytokine production, which may lead to vascular issues. The ultimate goal is to develop effective strategies for preventing obesity-related cardiovascular diseases.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to new lifestyle-based interventions that improve vascular health in obese patients.
How similar studies have gone: Other studies have shown promising results in using lifestyle interventions to address obesity-related health issues, making this approach both relevant and potentially impactful.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * BMI ≥ 35 kg/m2 * Between ages 18-50 years * Not pregnant * Approved for a bariatric surgery Exclusion Criteria: * To avoid confounding from other inflammatory conditions individuals with current cancer, heart, kidney or liver disease, gallbladder disease or acute or chronic inflammatory diseases (including rheumatoid arthritis, lupus and other autoimmune diseases and genetic diseases) will be excluded * Pregnant women will be excluded, as they will not be eligible for bariatric surgery * Current smokers * Currently abusing alcohol or drugs
Where it's running
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University of Illinois at Chicago
Chicago, Illinois, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Abeer Mohamed, MD, PhD — University of Illinois Chicago
- Study coordinator: Abeer Mohamed, MD, PhD
- Email: amahmo4@uic.edu
- Phone: 3127539998
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.