Cardiovascular Research

Our research trials are focused on natriuretic peptide levels. These hormones help to regulate your heart health and those with insufficient levels are more at risk of developing disease. Our lab is focused on identifying the most at risk groups and developing treatment to prevent cardiovascular diseases. 

Nautical Study (NCT04055428)

Black individuals are more likely to have decreased insulin sensitivity which results in a high risk for the development of cardiometabolic disease. The reasons for this are incompletely understood. Natriuretic Peptide levels are relatively lower in Black individuals thus affecting their metabolic health and putting them at higher risk for diabetes. This study aims to test the hypothesis that by augmenting natriuretic peptide levels using Sacubitril/ Valsartan, among Black individuals one can improve their metabolic health and and decrease disease in the population. The Nautical Study is a 14 week/ 10 visit study that focuses on insulin sensitivity and energy expenditure. This study requires taking an FDA approved medication that helps regulate blood pressure and increases natriuretic peptide levels. The compensation for this study is $675 if all visits are completed.

Inclusion Criteria:

  •  Self identified race is Black or African American
  • Must be 18 years or older
  • BMI less than 45 kg/m2
  • No history of heart disease, kidney disease, or liver disease
  • No history of diabetes

 

 

EBS Study (NCT03070184)

The EBS study focuses on the differences in response to medication and exercise between Black and White individuals. This study includes exercise and a 6 week medication period of an FDA approved drug called Metoprolol. The compensation for this study is $350 if all visits are completed.

Inclustion Criteria:

  • 18-40 Years Old
  • BMI less than 25 kg/m2
  • Blood pressure less than 140/90 mmHg
  • No history of heart disease, kidney disease, or liver disease,
  • No history of diabetes
Precision- BP (NCT04971720)

Obese individuals have a higher prevalence of nocturnal hypertension and non-dipping blood pressure and are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular events and death as compared to lean individuals. Natriuretic peptides influence blood pressure and those with higher BMIs can have a broken natriuretic peptide 24 hour day-night rhythm, leading to higher blood pressure. The Precision-BP study is aiming to understand this day-night cycle and identify when those with high blood pressure should take their blood pressure medication, morning or night. This study is 5 visits and include 2 24-hour stays at UAB. The compensation for the study is $575 if all visits are completed.

Inclusion Criteria: 

  • BMI of more than 30 kg/m2
  • Those with high blood pressure over 130/80 mmHg
  • No history of pulmonary hypertension, kidney disease, or liver disease
  • No history of cardiovascular disease
Genesis Study (NCT05216042)

Some people have common genetic variations that cause them to have lower natriuretic peptide levels. The Genesis study focuses on natriuretic peptide levels when comparing those with two different genetic variants of rs5068. Previous research shows that approximately 5-10% of the population have the genetic variation that leads to increased natriuretic peptide levels and lower risk of cardiometabolic disease. This study consists of 4 visits. The total compensation for this study is $300 if all visits are completed. 

Inclusion Criteria:

  • Must be 18 or older
  • No history of kidney disease, heart disease, or liver disease
  • No history of diabetes
Embark

The Embark study aims to learn about a new investigational medication for people with heart failure. 

Inclusion Criteria:

  • Must be 50 years or older
  • Diagnosed with heart failure
Victor-HF

In this clinical trial, doctors wil test an investigational drug to learn:

  • How safe it is
  • How well it works to lower to risks of heart failure, including:
    • Being hospitalized with heart failure that is getting worse
    • Dying because of heart and blood vessel problems

Who can join?

  • Are at least 18 years or older
  • Are getting treatment for the type of heart failure where the heart has less strength than normal to pump blood to the body
  • Have not gotten diuretics in an IV (water medicine in the vein) in the last 3 months as an outpatient
  • Have not stayed in a hospital for heart failure in the last 6 months
  • Are not waiting for a heart transplant 

Interested in Participating?

 

Please fill out the survey by clicking the button below

REDCap Survey