Hyperbaric oxygen at 1.75 ATA to boost VO2‑max and lower inflammation in adults 30–60
The Effects of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy at Intermediate Pressure (1.75 ATA) on VO₂ Max and Inflammatory Cytokine Profiles
This study will test whether breathing pure oxygen under 1.75 ATA pressure can raise VO2‑max and lower inflammation markers in healthy adults aged 30–60.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 30 (estimated) |
| Ages | 30 Years to 60 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Texas at Austin Academic / other |
| Locations | 2 sites (Austin, Texas and 1 other locations) |
| Trial ID | NCT07361861 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This interventional study delivers hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) at 1.75 atmospheres absolute in a pressurized chamber to physically active adults aged 30–60 with no chronic illnesses. Participants will have baseline and follow-up VO2‑max testing and blood draws to measure a panel of inflammatory cytokines before and after the HBOT course. The protocol targets a pressure that prior research suggests may alter cytokine profiles differently than lower or higher pressures, and HBOT is investigational for improving fitness outcomes. Safety screening excludes standard HBOT contraindications such as certain lung diseases and severe claustrophobia.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are physically active adults aged 30–60 without chronic illnesses and without HBOT exposure in the prior three months who can tolerate a pressurized chamber.
Not a fit: People with contraindications to HBOT—such as certain lung diseases, severe claustrophobia, or other medical exclusions—are unlikely to benefit and are not eligible.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the intervention could increase aerobic fitness and reduce systemic inflammation markers in healthy adults, potentially improving cardiovascular health and recovery.
How similar studies have performed: Some prior research shows pressure-dependent effects of HBOT on inflammatory cytokines, but clear evidence that HBOT improves VO2‑max in healthy adults is limited and the approach remains relatively novel for this outcome.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * physically active individuals with no history of chronic illness or HBOT exposure within the last three months. Exclusion Criteria: * individuals with contraindications to HBOT, including lung diseases or claustrophobia.
Where this trial is running
Austin, Texas and 1 other locations
- ATX Hyperbarics — Austin, Texas, United States (Recruiting)
- Westlake Medical Arts — Austin, Texas, United States (Active_not_recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Emma Lehrer, BSA Biology
- Email: elehrer@utexas.edu
- Phone: 7379321934
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.