High intensity exercise rehabilitation for liver function and insulin sensitivity in MASLD patients
Effect of High Intensity Exercise Rehabilitation on Hepatic Fatty Acids (Liver Function), Insulin Sensitivity and Cardiovascular Risk in Patients With MASLD
This study is testing whether high-intensity exercise can improve liver health and insulin sensitivity in people with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD).
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 92 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 75 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University Hospital, Ghent Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Ghent) |
| Trial ID | NCT06359444 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This clinical trial evaluates the effects of combined exercise training, specifically strength and aerobic training versus strength and high-intensity interval training (HIIT), on liver function and insulin sensitivity in patients diagnosed with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). The study aims to determine how these exercise modalities impact liver steatosis severity and overall metabolic health. Participants will be recruited from the fatty liver clinic at UZ Gent, where they will undergo screening for cardiorespiratory fitness before being assigned to one of the exercise interventions. The trial seeks to explore the potential benefits of high-intensity training in this patient population, which has not been previously studied.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 18 to 75 diagnosed with MASLD and without significant liver fibrosis.
Not a fit: Patients with other liver diseases, severe comorbidities, or those on specific pharmacological treatments affecting MASLD may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved liver function and insulin sensitivity in patients with MASLD through targeted exercise interventions.
How similar studies have performed: While exercise interventions have shown promise in improving liver health in various populations, the specific application of HIIT in MASLD patients is novel and has not been extensively tested.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Diagnosed with MASLD by ultrasound, CAP and/or biopsy * Age between 18 and 75 years old * No significant liver fibrosis (Fibroscan \< 7.5 kPa; if it is between \>7.5 and \<10, there must be absence of liver fibrosis in the biopsy) Exclusion Criteria: * Presence of other liver diseases that may contribute to the clinical presentation in the patient * Severe cardiovascular, orthopedic, physical or other illnesses that make it impossible to participate in the study's exercise rehabilitation program or where safety cannot be guaranteed * Pregnancy * Pharmacological treatment that directly affects MASLD (e.g. GLP-1 analogues) * A change in medication in the last three months before the study that affects metabolic disease stability
Where this trial is running
Ghent
- Ghent University Hospital — Ghent, Belgium (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Patrick Calders, Prof. dr. — University Ghent
- Study coordinator: Patrick Calders, Prof. dr.
- Email: patrick.calders@ugent.be
- Phone: 0032498354766
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.