Clinical Research Directory

Improving Physical Function in Older Adults Using an Anti-inflammation Drug: The RIGHT Study

The goal of this clinical trial is to learn about the effects of inflammation-lowering therapy on mobility and disability in older adults. The main questions it aims to answer are: * Will therapy improve walking speed/pace? * Will therapy improve levels of blood inflammation markers and other indicators of physical, cognitive and immune function? Participants will be asked to receive injections of drug or placebo every 4 weeks for 24 weeks. They will also be asked to undergo testing that assesses physical function, thinking ability and brain health, breathing capacity, and blood vessel stiffness, and will have blood samples collected to measure immune function and to create a bank of samples for future testing. Comparisons will be made between those who receive drug and those who receive placebo.

Exercise Training and Kidney Transplantation

The goal of this clinical trial is to investigate the physiological and molecular effects of exercise training in transplant recipients. The main questions it aims to answer are: 1. Can exercise training improve physical fitness and muscle strength in transplant recipients? 2. Can exercise training modulate inflammatory profile, hormones, lipid profile, and exercise-induced molecules in transplant recipients? 3. Can exercise training improve blood pressure and endothelial health in transplant patients? Participants will be invited to an exercise training program 6-month after their transplant surgery. Body composition, physical assessment, and blood draw will be assessed at baseline and 24-weeks after exercise or control regimen. Researchers will compare exercise group vs. routine care group to see if exercise training impact the health-related outcomes of this population.

Effects of Icosapent Ethyl on Coronary Plaque, Inflammation, and Ventricular Remodeling

Even with standard treatments like statins, patients with coronary artery disease often face a residual risk of further heart events. This risk is largely driven by ongoing inflammation and unstable fatty plaques in the heart's blood vessels. Icosapent ethyl (IPE) is a highly purified prescription medication known to improve cardiovascular outcomes, but its detailed effects on the heart's structure and inflammation in everyday clinical practice need further exploration. This study is a prospective, observational, real-world study designed to evaluate the effectiveness of IPE in patients with Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS) or Chronic Coronary Syndrome (CCS). The study plans to enroll 420 patients who will be followed for 12 months. Based on their routine clinical prescriptions, participants will be grouped into a control group (receiving standard cardiovascular care, including statins) and an exposure group (receiving standard care plus IPE). Throughout the 1-year follow-up, researchers will conduct regular blood tests and advanced heart imaging. The main goal is to determine if adding IPE to standard therapy leads to a more significant reduction in inflammation. Additionally, the study will observe how IPE affects the stability of coronary plaques and the healing process of ventricular remodeling in a real-world clinical setting.

A Performance Evaluation of the LumiraDx Point of Care CRP Assay

In patients with symptoms of infection, tissue injury and inflammatory disorders the study will evaluate agreement between the CRP measurements from the LumiraDx POC CRP assay and the Siemens Dimension Xpand Plus CRP assay, as an aid in evaluation and detection of infection, tissue injury and inflammatory disorders.

The Psoriasis, Atherosclerosis, and Cardiometabolic Disease Initiative (PACI)

Background: \- Cardiometabolic diseases are medical disorders that can occur together and affect the heart. They increase the risk of developing heart disease and diabetes. One disorder, psoriasis, is an inflammation that mostly affects the skin but can affect the entire body. Another disorder, atherosclerosis, is a process in which cholesterol is gradually deposited on the wall of arteries. This causes arteries to harden and become less flexible. Many cells that cause psoriasis also cause atherosclerosis. Researchers want to look at the relationship between cardiometabolic diseases and psoriasis. Objectives: \- To study the relationship between psoriasis and cardiometabolic diseases. Eligibility: \- Individuals at least 18 years of age who have psoriasis. Design: * Participants will be screened with a physical exam and medical history. * Participants will have up to seven outpatient visits over the 4 years. The first visit will be a screening visit. Visits 2 will be12 months after visit 1. Visits 3, 4, and 5, will be scheduled yearly for the next 3 years. If participants have a psoriasis flare with more severe symptoms, they may have an extra visit. Those who leave the study early will have a final visit with the full series of tests. * At visits 1, 2,and 5, and any flare visits, participants will have a physical exam and medical history. They will provide blood and urine samples, as well as optional tissue biopsies. They will also have heart function tests. Imaging studies, as well as optional photographs of affected areas, will be performed. These tests will also be performed at the final visit. * At visits 3 and 4, participants will have a physical exam and medical history. They will also provide blood and urine samples, and have heart function tests.

Immune Cell Response to Stimuli

This study will investigate the response of immune cells (neutrophils, monocytes) to various signals in the test tube to determine how they sense the signals in the body and what substances they produce in response to them. It will determine how the cells may, under certain circumstances, contribute to inflammation, and will measure substances in the blood plasma (the liquid, non-cellular part of the blood) that might stimulate white blood cells, in order to understand how the blood responds to possible disease-related conditions. Healthy normal volunteers 18 years of age and older who weigh at least 110 pounds may be eligible for this study. Participants give about 320 milliliters (mL) of blood (about 1 1/3 cups) or less at each donation. They donate no more than once every 8 weeks and no more than six times a year. On some occasions, less than 320 mL of blood may be drawn. The collected blood is separated into its components and specific cells are exposed to substances to examine their response....

Links Between Inflammation and Cardiometabolic Diseases

Background: \- Cardiometabolic diseases are a combination of medical disorders that, when they occur together, increase the risk of heart disease and diabetes. Researchers want to learn if there is a relationship between these diseases and inflammation (redness, swelling, and pain). Inflammation affects the entire body. Researchers will study this relationship in people with heart disease and diabetes, and compare it to healthy people. Objectives: \- To learn if there are links between inflammation and cardiometabolic diseases. Eligibility: * Adults 18 years of age or older with heart disease or diabetes. * Healthy volunteers 18 years of age or older. Design: * Participants will have up to six study visits. There will be first visit, then an optional visit 12 months after the first visit. * At the study visits they will have: * Blood taken with a needle in their arm. * An electrocardiogram. Small patches are stuck to the chest and limbs. A machine measures electrical signals of the heart. * Completed a number of questionnaires. * A body scan called an FDG PET/CT. A substance will be injected through a tube in their arm. They will lie on a special bed that will move in and out of the PET/CT scanner. The PET/CT scanner will take pictures of the body. The scan will last up to 30 minutes. * Some participants will have other body scans ( FDG PET/MRI). The procedures are similar to the FDG PET/CT scan. These other scans will last about 30 minutes total. * Some participants will also have a CT scan of their heart. A substance will be injected through a tube in their arm. They will lie on a table in a large, donut-shaped machine. An X-ray tube will move around their body, taking many pictures. This procedure can last up to 2 hours. * Some participants will have tests that measures blood pressure and how the blood moves through the body. * Some participants will have small samples of skin and fat tissue taken.

Nitrate, Exercise and Vascular Function in Midlife Women

The purpose of this clinical study in women after menopause is to investigate whether the daily intake of nitrate from beetroot juice over 12 weeks enhances the positive effect of exercise training on vascular function, blood pressure and physical performance. The risk of cardiovascular diseases (CVD) increases with advancing age and women are particularly affected. In women, the decline in the sex hormone oestrogen in the blood circulation with menopause contributes to impaired vascular function and an increased CVD risk; in part through increased inflammatory processes, oxidative stress, and a reduced body's own production of nitric oxide (NO). NO is a signaling molecule that is important for vascular function. Endurance-based exercise training is a key lifestyle strategy to prevent CVD. However, studies indicate that exercise is less effective in terms of its health-promoting adaptations in women after menopause as compared with men of similar age. This study investigates the effect of exercise training in combination with the intake of nitrate-rich beetroot juice on functions of the cardiovascular system. Nitrate is a nitrogen compound that is found naturally in plant foods (e.g. beetroot juice) and is converted to NO in the human body. Results of previous studies indicate vasodilatory, blood pressure-lowering and performance-enhancing effects as well as positive influences on inflammatory processes and oxidative stress following nitrate intake. The hypothesis is that nitrate intake concomitant to training promotes training adaptations and further improves vascular function, blood pressure and physical performance compared to training without nitrate intake. For the study, 54 untrained postmenopausal women (with the ages between 45 and 65 years) will be recruited and randomly allocated into two groups. Both groups will undergo 12 weeks of endurance-based exercise training. One group will receive nitrate-rich beetroot juice, and the other nitrate-depleted beetroot juice (as placebo). Vascular function, blood pressure, maximum oxygen uptake, and blood biomarkers for nitrate metabolism, inflammation status and oxidative stress will be examined. The anticipated study results will provide new insights into whether nitrate as a 'training adjunct' improves health-promoting training adaptations in women after menopause. The overall aim is to improve the cardiovascular health and performance of middle-aged women and reduce their increased CVD risk.

Pilot Study Evaluating the Impact of Stress Reduction on Atherosclerotic : Heart and Mind Study

The plot study aims to evaluate the effect of 8 weeks of stress reducing intervention on atherosclerotic plaque inflammation in adults, as quantified by positron emission tomography (PET) with fluorine-2-deoxy-D-glucose (FDG) in individuals with increased psychosocial stress.

Hormones, Outcomes, and Pain Pathways in Exercise Study

The goal of the proposed project is to evaluate a mechanical intervention (sports bras designed specifically for full busted women) to alleviate neck, shoulder, arm, and back pain in full-busted women and investigate the contribution of non-mechanical pathways associated with this type of pain in women. Specifically, the investigators will investigate how sex-hormones, inflammation, and remapping of specific regions of the brain contribute to the manifestation of neck, shoulder, arm, and back pain in full-busted women across the lifespan.

Evaluation of Molecular Hydrogen Supplementation to Enhance the Efficacy of Weight Loss Retreat in Overweight and Obese Adolescents

This randomized controlled trial evaluates whether molecular hydrogen supplementation enhances the effectiveness of a 4-week weight loss retreat in overweight and obese adolescents. Outcome measures include: body composition, physical status, blood samples (insulin sensitivity, lipid profiles, markers of oxidative stress and inflammation) and autonomic nervous system function.

Clinical Trial Evaluating the Impact of a Dietary Supplement Containing Humic and Fulvic Acid on Epigenetic Markers of Biological Age, Detoxification, Inflammation, and Oxidative Stress

The primary purpose of this study is to evaluate the impact of BioToxin Binder, a commercially available dietary supplement containing humic and fulvic acid, on markers of biologic age, detoxification, inflammation, oxidative stress, and related markers among generally healthy adults.

Light Therapy to Improve Sleep in TBI: Sleep-active Biomarkers and Glymphatic Function

This is a clinical trial designed to examine how improved sleep through morning bright light therapy is improving downstream key physiologic processes related to brain health, i.e., mitochondrial function, systemic inflammation, and glymphatic function. All proposed methodology is already approved in other IRB applications.

Plant-based Diet for Kidney Transplant Recipients

The goal of this clinical trial is to evaluate cardiometabolic and inflammatory parameters in kidney transplant recipients after transitioning to a plant-based diet (PBD). The main aims of the study are as follows: * To test the feasibility of transiting renal allograft recipients who are \> 3 months post-transplant to a PBD * To study the effect of a PBD on cardiometabolic parameters in kidney transplant recipients * To assess the effect of a PBD on peripheral blood Th17/Treg ratio and systemic inflammation in kidney transplant recipients Participants will be asked to: * Complete a 2-week investigator-designed PBD transition program * Follow a PBD for a minimum of 16 weeks * Consent for blood draws, urine samples, and fecal samples along with physical exams * Complete intermittent food frequency questionnaires and quality of life questionnaires * Periodically meet with investigators and other study participants Researchers will compare baseline measurements with future measurements for each participant.

Blood Markers of Inflammation, Blood Clotting and Blood Vessel Function in HIV-infected Adults

This study will collect information about markers of inflammation, blood clotting and blood vessel function in HIV-infected adults and healthy volunteers. Biomarkers are biological indicators that have been associated with disease. Certain markers of inflammation, blood clotting, and blood vessel function have been associated with risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke and death. One marker, called D-dimer, is a breakdown product of blood clots that has been associated with serious medical conditions, including deep vein thrombosis (formation of a blood clot in a vein deep in the body) and pulmonary embolism (blockage in the pulmonary artery that occurs when a blood clot from a vein breaks away, travels to the pulmonary artery and lodges there). High D-dimer levels have also been associated with cardiovascular disease and stroke risk. In a recent study of HIV-infected patients, higher D-dimer levels were strongly correlated with risk of death from any cause. The significance of changes in D-dimer and other biomarkers in HIV-infected adults is not well understood. This study will further explore D-dimer and other biomarkers to try to better understand the relationships between them and HIV infection. Healthy volunteers and HIV-infected adults 18 years of age or older may be eligible for this study. Two visits are involved, as follows: Visit 1 (screening visit to determine eligibility) * Medical history and physical examination. * Blood tests for HIV infection, blood counts, liver and kidney function. * Pregnancy test for women who can become pregnant. Visit 2 * Blood tests for hepatitis B and C * Blood tests for markers of inflammation and blood clotting. * Blood test for genetic changes that influence blood clotting. In some cases, visits 1 and 2 may be combined. Optional additional visits (up to 8 visits over 3 years) * Additional blood draws for investigation of specific clinical or laboratory findings may be requested.

The Impact of Biophoton Therapy on Self-Grown Stem Cells

Study Objective The purpose of this clinical study is to evaluate if biophoton therapy, delivered by Tesla BioHealing® Biophoton Generators (Biophotonizer), can increase self-grown stem cells naturally. Study Design This is a randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled intervention clinical study to assess the effectiveness of biophoton therapy in impacting stem cells. Approximately 46 volunteers who want to increase self-grown stem cells will participate in the study. Study Randomization The biostatistician will prepare a randomization schedule including a serial of subject numbers. A subject number will be randomly assigned to each study participant, which will assign them to either the control group or the treatment group. Other than the Informed Consent Form (ICF), all study information will be recorded by using the subject number. The Principal Investigator, study physicians, study nurse, data-entry specialists, and biostatisticians, as well as the participants, will be blinded about who received which product during the first two weeks of study participation.

Diagnosis and Management of Inflammatory and Infectious Diseases

This protocol is being established to cover the evaluation of patients with inflammatory and/or infectious diseases which are not covered under previously existing protocols. The purpose of such a protocol is that frequently patients are referred to us with either diagnosed or undiagnosed illnesses which would be of interest to our teaching program or which would serve as a source of patients to subsequently be entered into established, ongoing protocol studies. Such patients will be admitted to the protocol and handled according to accepted medical practice of diagnosis and treatment.

Evaluation and Long-Term Follow-up of Patients With Inflammatory Disorders

This study will investigate inflammatory diseases and disorders. Inflammation is the body s immune response to many things, including infections and other acute or chronic irritants. It may also be a sign of abnormal immune function. This study will allow evaluation and long-term follow-up of such disorders to: * Establish and maintain a group of patients that may be eligible for other NIAID protocols. * Provide clinical training and experience for NIAID fellows. * Provide a mechanism for NIAID staff to maintain their clinical skills. * Serve as a starting point for new investigations of syndromes not currently under study. Patients between 1 and 80 years of age with acute or chronic inflammation, including but not limited to viral, fungal or bacterial infections, or abnormal immune responses may be eligible for this study. Immediate family members of patients may also be enrolled for preliminary examination to see if they are affected in any way that may warrant further investigation. All patients and family members will have a history, physical examination and laboratory tests. Depending on the results, family members may require additional tests. Patients will have additional diagnostic tests indicated for their specific disease, according to accepted medical standards. These may include routine blood and urine tests, X-rays or other imaging studies, body fluid or tissue cultures, skin tests for allergic or immune responses, and others as needed. Treatments will include only medications approved by the Food and Drug Administration according to accepted dose schedules and delivery methods. Patients may be requested to donate extra blood for research studies. No more than 450 cc (30 tablespoons) will be drawn from adults within a 6-week period, and no more that 7 cc (1/2 tablespoon) from children under 18 years of age in the same time period.

Impact of NMES and HPRO on Recovery After SAH- Pilot Study

The study purpose is to investigate the hypothesis that in adults with SAH, early neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) and high protein supplementation (HPRO) will improve muscle mass, metabolic and inflammatory biomarker profiles, compared to SAH controls receiving standard of care interventions for nutrition and mobilization. The investigators will accomplish this by studying the effects of a high protein (HPRO) nutritional treatment as well as NMES intervention have upon muscle wasting and motor strength acutely after SAH. This will be addressed in a prospective trial of SAH patients receiving HRPO with NMES as compared to age and severity-matched SAH patients undergoing standard of care interventions for nutrition and mobilization. Additionally, the study will investigate the impact HPRO and NMES interventions have upon inflammatory cytokines and markers of energy balance. Results of this study will establish evidence for precision nutrition plus early exercise to mitigate the catabolic and inflammatory state produced by SAH to improve muscle, metabolic, and health recovery outcomes.

EFFECTS OF PROPOLIS AND ROYAL JELLY SUPPLEMENTATION ON INFLAMMATORY AND OXIDATIVE STRESS MARKERS IN PATIENTS WITH SYSTEMIC ARTERIAL HYPERTENSION

The study aims to evaluate the effect of the royal jelly and propolis on inflammation and oxidative stress in participants with systemic arterial hypertension. A longitudinal double-blind randomized clinical trial will be carried out, involving hypertensive participants for two months.

Royal Jelly as a Strategy to Modulate Inflammation and Oxidative Stress in Patients With Systemic Arterial Hypertension

The study aims to evaluate the effect of the royal jelly on inflammation and oxidative stress in participants with systemic arterial hypertension. A longitudinal double-blind randomized clinical trial will be carried out, involving hypertensive participants for two months.

Red Propolis Supplementation as a Strategy in Chronic Kidney Disease

The objective of this study is to evaluate the effects of red propolis on inflammation and oxidative stress in patients with chronic kidney disease on conservative management.

Effects of Brazil Nut Supplementation in Patients With Chronic Kidney Disease Undergoing Conservative Treatment

The aim of this study is to evaluate the effects of Brazil nut supplementation on inflammation, oxidative stress and intestinal microbiota in patients with chronic kidney disease undergoing conservative treatment.

Reducing Suicide Risk Among Aging Caregivers of Persons With AD/ADRD

This project aims to adapt, implement, and evaluate a Dialectical Behavior Therapy skills training group intervention for aging adult family caregivers of person with Alzheimer's Disease and Alzheimer's Disease Related Dementias (AD/ADRD) to reduce suicidality. By adapting this modality, the investigators will provide a scalable intervention tailored for this high-risk population, maximizing the public health impact and improving suicide prevention.