Examining how insulin in the brain affects the immune system during exercise

The Importance of Insulin Action in the Brain for the Immune System During Physical Activity

Not applicable Interventional University of Ulm · NCT06552130

This study is testing how insulin in the brain affects the immune system during exercise to see if it helps improve physical performance.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment20 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 30 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Ulm Academic / other
Locations1 site (Ulm)
Trial IDNCT06552130 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial investigates the role of insulin action in the brain on the immune system during physical activity. Participants will undergo bicycle spiroergometer tests on two separate days, receiving either an intranasal insulin spray or a placebo spray in a randomized, blinded manner. The study aims to clarify how brain insulin influences immune responses and physical performance through the autonomic nervous system. Measurements will include immune cell activity, cytokine levels, and gene expression in leukocytes.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals with a BMI less than 24 kg/m2 and no known primary diseases.

Not a fit: Patients with alcohol or drug abuse issues, smoking habits, or any clinical conditions that may jeopardize their safety will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance our understanding of how insulin action in the brain influences immune function during exercise, potentially leading to improved health outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of this study may be novel, previous research has indicated that insulin action in the brain can influence various physiological processes, suggesting potential for success.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* BMI \< 24 kg/m2
* no known primary diseases
* hormonal contraception with a single-phase preparation

Exclusion Criteria:

* Alcohol or drug abuse
* Smoking
* At screening: Hb \< 12 g/dl for women and Hb \< 14 g/dl for men
* Any (clinical) condition that would endanger participant's safety or question scientific success according to a physician's opinion.

Where this trial is running

Ulm

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 Insulin Sensitivitybrain insulin actionautonomic nervous systemphysical activity
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.