Identifying brain health targets for patients on hemodialysis

Identifying Therapeutic Hemodialysis Targets Through Cerebrovascular Reactivity; RESPIRACT 2

Observational London Health Sciences Centre Research Institute OR Lawson Research Institute of St. Joseph's · NCT05445219

This study is testing how blood flow in the brain reacts to carbon dioxide in people with chronic kidney disease who are on hemodialysis to find ways to protect their brain health during treatment.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment37 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorLondon Health Sciences Centre Research Institute OR Lawson Research Institute of St. Joseph's Academic / other
Locations1 site (London, Ontario)
Trial IDNCT05445219 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to assess how brain blood flow responds to carbon dioxide in patients with chronic kidney disease undergoing hemodialysis. By measuring cerebrovascular reactivity (CVR) before and after dialysis treatments, the study seeks to establish therapeutic targets that could help protect cognitive function during the dialysis process. Participants will undergo four assessments over two dialysis sessions to evaluate the relationship between cognitive impairment and brain blood flow response. The findings may lead to improved strategies for managing brain health in hemodialysis patients.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 and older who are receiving hemodialysis treatment at least three times per week.

Not a fit: Patients with severe chronic obstructive lung disease, documented dementia, or those who have had a stroke may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to targeted interventions that preserve cognitive function in patients receiving hemodialysis.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have indicated that hemodialysis patients exhibit impaired cerebrovascular reactivity, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Patients ≥ 18 years old, receiving hemodialysis treatment at least 3 times per week at a London Health Sciences Centre facility
* English proficiency

Exclusion Criteria:

* Mental incapacity to consent
* Declined to participate
* Severe chronic obstructive lung disease (COPD) /Asthma
* History of cerebrovascular accident (stroke, transient ischemic attack)
* Previous neurosurgery
* History of carotid stenosis or carotid surgery
* History of vasculitis
* Documented Dementia
* Pregnancy
* Not fluent in English

Where this trial is running

London, Ontario

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 Chronic Kidney FailureHemodialysisCerebrovascular ReactivityCognitive Impairment
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.