Using a mitochondrial-targeted antioxidant to improve blood vessel function in older adults

Mitochondrial-targeted Antioxidant Supplementation for Improving Age-related Vascular Dysfunction in Humans

Phase 2 Interventional University of Colorado, Boulder · NCT04851288

This study is testing if a special antioxidant called MitoQ can help improve blood vessel function in older adults aged 60 and up.

Quick facts

PhasePhase 2
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment112 (estimated)
Ages60 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Colorado, Boulder Academic / other
Locations1 site (Boulder, Colorado)
Trial IDNCT04851288 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial investigates the effects of MitoQ, a mitochondria-targeted antioxidant, on age-related vascular dysfunction in individuals aged 60 and older. The study aims to reduce reactive oxygen species (ROS) produced by mitochondria, which are linked to vascular oxidative stress and cardiovascular diseases. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either MitoQ or a placebo for a specified duration, with the primary outcome being the improvement in endothelial function as measured by endothelium-dependent dilation. The trial seeks to provide insights into novel interventions that could mitigate the risk of cardiovascular diseases in older adults.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are individuals aged 60 years and older who are stable in weight and free from significant health issues.

Not a fit: Patients with uncontrolled thyroid disease or those engaging in regular vigorous aerobic exercise may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly improve vascular health and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases in older adults.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach of using mitochondrial-targeted antioxidants is promising, it is still relatively novel and has not been extensively tested in human populations.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Age 60 years and over
* Ability to provide informed consent
* Willing to accept random assignment to condition
* Body mass index \<40 kg/m2
* Weight stable in the prior 3 months (\<2 kg weight change) and willing to remain weight stable throughout the study
* Free from alcohol dependence or abuse,
* Mini-mental stage examination score ≥21

Exclusion Criteria:

* Uncontrolled thyroid disease
* Regular vigorous aerobic (\>6 bouts/week, \>60 min/bout at a workload \>6 METS)
* Blood donation within 8 weeks prior to enrolling in the study

Where this trial is running

Boulder, Colorado

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 Aging
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.