Investigating Lipid Accumulation in the Right Ventricle of Patients with Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to explore the relationship between right ventricle (RV) lipid accumulation and RV function, exercise capacity, and clinical outcomes in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). The study will measure lipid levels in the RV and left ventricle, assess exercise capacity through tests like the 6-minute walk test, and analyze potential drivers of lipid accumulation, including BMPR2 expression and lipid metabolism. Participants will be followed over time to understand the natural history of RV steatosis and its impact on health.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion criteria:

* ≥ 18 years old
* Diagnosed with idiopathic, heritable, connective tissue disease-associated PAH, associated pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), or drug-or toxin-associated PAH according to World Health Organization (WHO) consensus recommendations.
* Stable PAH-specific medication regimen for three months prior to enrollment. Adjustments in IV prostacyclin for side effect management are allowed. Diuretic adjustments are permitted.
* WHO Functional Class I-III
* Ambulatory
* Able to have an MRI/MRS, perform a 6MWD test, and cardiopulmonary exercise test

Exclusion criteria:

* Pregnancy
* Diagnosis of PAH etiology other than idiopathic, heritable, connective tissue disease - associated PAH or associated with drugs and toxins
* WHO Functional class IV heart failure
* Requirement for continuous oxygen
* Unable to have an MRI/MRS, perform a 6MWD test, or cardiopulmonary exercise test.
* Patients with implanted/embedded ferromagnetic material that would preclude cardiac MRI

Where it's running

• Vanderbilt University Medical Center
  Nashville, Tennessee, United States Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Evan Brittain, MD, MSCI — Vanderbilt University Medical Center
• Study coordinator: Natasha Billard
• Email: natasha.billard.1@vumc.org
• Phone: (434) 851-3306

Similar studies

Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

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• Rutgers Genetics of Pulmonary Hypertension

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• Using 129Xe MRI to Diagnose and Monitor Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension

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• Understanding how low-load leg exercises affect muscle and blood flow in PAH patients

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.