NCT05797857 · Brigham and Women's Hospital
Exercise Training in Transthyretin Cardiac Amyloidosis
What this study is about
Transthyretin cardiac amyloidosis causes debilitating heart failure in older adults. The proposed research will develop a personalized exercise training program to improve functional capacity in patients on optimal treatment for transthyretin cardiac amyloidosis. This is a vital next step to improve functional capacity and quality of life of people suffering from transthyretin cardiac amyloidosis.
View original scientific description
Transthyretin cardiac amyloidosis causes debilitating heart failure in older adults. The proposed research will develop a personalized exercise training program to improve functional capacity in patients on optimal treatment for transthyretin cardiac amyloidosis. This is a vital next step to improve functional capacity and quality of life of people suffering from transthyretin cardiac amyloidosis.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Diagnosis and typing of ATTR-CM by endomyocardial biopsy or by Grade 2 or Grade 3 pyrophosphate (PYP) positivity (exception: nonamyloid control arm in aim 1).
- Diagnosis of heart failure, with prior or current need of diuretics and increased N-terminal prohormone B-natureitic peptide (BNP) (≥450 pg/ml).
- Peak VO2 \<80% predicted, indicating impaired aerobic capacity (for aim 2 only).
- Taking tafamidis (for aim 2 only)
- Able to walk 4 meters (with or without the use of an assistive device) and independent with basic activities of daily living at the time of enrolment.
- Adequate clinical stability has been achieved in the judgment of the investigator to allow participation in study assessments and the intervention.
- Signed informed consent document indicating that the patient understands the purpose of and procedures required for the study and is willing to participate in the study.
Exclusion criteria
- Acute myocardial infarction (Note: given that cardiac biomarkers such as troponin are frequently elevated in ATTR-CM patients, the diagnosis of acute myocardial infarction should be based on clinical diagnosis, not biomarkers alone)
- \>70% obstructive coronary artery disease
- Severe aortic valve stenosis
- Already actively participating in formal, facility-based cardiac exercise
- Already engaging in regular moderate to vigorous exercise conditioning defined as \> 30 minutes per day, ≥ twice per week consistently during the previous 6 weeks
- Ventricular assist device
- Light chain amyloidosis or other form of non-ATTR amyloidosis
- Advanced chronic kidney disease defined as estimated glomerular filtration rate \<20 mL/min/1.73m2
- Any organ transplantation
- Terminal illness other than HF with life expectancy \< 1 year
- Pacemaker or implantable cardioverter-defibrillato (ICD) with heart rate limits \< expected heart rates for exercise and unable to be reprogrammed
- Neuropathy due to transthyretin (TTR) mutation
- Impairment from stroke, injury or other medical disorder that precludes participation in the intervention
- Abnormal cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) finding that requires further investigation and management
- Dementia that precludes ability to participate in exercise and follow study protocols
- High risk for non-adherence as determined by screening evaluation
- Inability or unwillingness to comply with the study requirements
Where
- Boston, Massachusetts
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Mar 18, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations