Investigating the role of endothelin-1 in blood vessel function after gestational diabetes
Official title: Role of ET-1, Physical Activity, and Sedentary Behavior in Microvascular Dysfunction Following GDM
Run by University of Iowa · NCT06547619 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing how a substance called endothelin-1 affects blood vessel function in women who had gestational diabetes to see if insulin can help improve their heart health after pregnancy.
Quick facts
| Phase | Early Phase 1 |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Ages | 18 Years to 50 Years |
| Sex | Women only |
| Enrollment | 40 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Iowa Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Iowa City, Iowa) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | October 1, 2024 |
| Main results expected | September 30, 2026 |
| Study ends | May 2027 |
| Registry record updated | October 29, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT06547619 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are women who have had a pregnancy within the last five years, particularly those diagnosed with gestational diabetes.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with current hypertension, metabolic diseases, or those who are currently pregnant will not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This study examines how endothelin-1, a potent vasoconstrictor, affects microvascular function in women who have experienced gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). It aims to understand the mechanisms behind persistent vascular dysfunction that can occur postpartum, despite the resolution of insulin resistance. The study will involve administering insulin aspart to assess its impact on endothelial function in this population. By focusing on women within five years postpartum, the research seeks to uncover critical insights into cardiovascular risk following GDM.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved understanding and management of cardiovascular risks in women with a history of gestational diabetes.
How similar studies have gone: While the association between GDM and cardiovascular risk is established, this specific investigation into endothelin-1's role in microvascular dysfunction is novel and has not been extensively tested.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
INCLUSION CRITERIA * history of pregnancy within 5 years of the study visit * had healthy pregnancy OR had gestational diabetes diagnosed by their obstetrician and confirmed according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists criteria for gestational diabetes. EXCLUSION CRITERIA * skin diseases, * current tobacco or electronic cigarette/vape pen use, * diagnosed or suspected hepatic or metabolic disease including diabetes, * statin or other cholesterol-lowering medication, * current antihypertensive medication, * history of preeclampsia or gestational hypertension * current hypertension, * current pregnancy, * body mass index \<18.5 kg/m2, * allergy to materials used during the experiment.(e.g. latex), known allergies to study drugs.
Where it's running
-
University of Iowa
Iowa City, Iowa, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Anna Reid-Stanhewicz, PHD
- Email: anna-stanhewicz@uiowa.edu
- Phone: 319-467-1732
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.