Understanding inflammation's role in cardiovascular risk for women with endometriosis

Mechanisms and Interventions Addressing Accelerated Cardiovascular Disease Risk in Endometriosis

Early Phase 1 Interventional Penn State University · NCT05069740

This study is testing whether a new pill can help women with endometriosis improve their heart health by looking at how inflammation affects their risk for heart disease.

Quick facts

PhaseEarly Phase 1
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment24 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 45 Years
SexFemale
SponsorPenn State University Academic / other
Locations1 site (University Park, Pennsylvania)
Trial IDNCT05069740 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to investigate the mechanisms linking endometriosis to increased cardiovascular disease risk in women. It will measure the effectiveness of new treatments for endometriosis on cardiovascular dysfunction outcomes. The research focuses on the role of inflammation and specific biomarkers, such as LDL and oxidized LDL, in this relationship. Participants will receive either a salsalate pill or a placebo to assess the impact on their cardiovascular health.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include healthy women aged 18 to 45 with a diagnosis of endometriosis confirmed by prior laparoscopy.

Not a fit: Patients with pre-existing cardiovascular disease, diabetes, or other significant health issues may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved treatment strategies for women with endometriosis, potentially reducing their cardiovascular disease risk.

How similar studies have performed: While there is existing research on endometriosis and cardiovascular risk, this specific approach focusing on LOX-1 and systemic inflammation is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Healthy women between the ages of 18 and 45 years (Controls), taking oral contraceptive or with regular menses every 26-34 days
* Women between the ages of 18 and 45 years with endometriosis (diagnosis by prior laparoscopy by subject's own physician \<5 years prior, and reported by the subject to the researchers)
* Tylenol if the subject has acute pain is allowed
* Contraceptive use is allowed

Exclusion Criteria:

* Use of nicotine-containing products (e.g. smoking, chewing tobacco, etc.)
* Diabetes (HbA1C 6.5%)
* BP\>140/90
* Taking pharmacotherapy that could alter peripheral vascular control (e.g. insulin sensitizing, cardiovascular medications)
* Pregnancy
* Breastfeeding
* Taking illicit and/or recreational drugs
* Abnormal liver function
* Rash, skin disease, disorders of pigmentation, known skin allergies
* Diagnosed or suspected metabolic or cardiovascular disease
* Persistent unexplained elevations of serum transaminases
* Known allergy to latex or investigative substances (including salsalate or simvastatin)
* History of gastrointestinal bleeding

Where this trial is running

University Park, Pennsylvania

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 Endometriosisskin blood flowinflammationLectin-like oxidized LDL receptorintradermal microdialysis
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.