RecruitingNCT06009276

Associations Between the Microbiome, Skeletal Muscle Perfusion, and Fitness Status

Sponsor

University of Virginia

Enrollment

70 participants

Start Date

Aug 30, 2023

Study Type

OBSERVATIONAL

Conditions

Peripheral Arterial Disease Overweight and Obesity Heart Failure, Diastolic Heart Failure, Systolic

Summary

The purpose of the study is to determine associations between fitness status, bacteria in the mouth, and the blood flow to muscle. This study is trying to find out if fitness status impacts the bacteria that are present in the oral microbiome (environment in the mouth) or the ability of the body to send blood to the skeletal muscle. Participants will complete all or some of the following: * A mouth swab to assess the bacteria in their mouths. * Produce a saliva sample into a tube. * Cycle on a bike until you reach maximum effort. * Undergo blood draws * Wear a 24-hour non-invasive device that monitors blood pressure. * Drink 70mL (1/3 of a cup) of concentrated beetroot juice once

Eligibility

Min Age: 18 Years

Plain Language Summary

Simplified for easier understanding

This is a research study exploring how the bacteria living in your mouth and gut (the microbiome) might be connected to blood flow in muscles and physical fitness. It involves exercise testing and non-invasive imaging — not a drug treatment. **You may be eligible if...** - You are 18 or older (men or women) - You can communicate clearly and provide written consent - You are able to perform exercise - You can communicate effectively in English **You may NOT be eligible if...** - You have taken oral antibiotics in the past 4 weeks - You have poor oral health (as assessed by questionnaire) - You use antibacterial mouthwash containing chlorhexidine and won't stop - You smoke tobacco - You are pregnant or breastfeeding - You have chronic kidney failure - You take certain heart or blood pressure medications (nitroglycerine, PDE-5 inhibitors like Viagra/Cialis, or xanthine oxidase inhibitors like Allopurinol) - You are allergic to ultrasound contrast agents Talk to your doctor to see if this trial is right for you.

This summary was AI-generated to explain the trial in plain language. It is not medical advice. Always discuss eligibility with your doctor before enrolling in a clinical trial.

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