NCT05876923 · Mayo Clinic
The Effects of Exercise on Immune Phenotype of Indolent Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma and Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia Patients
What this study is about
This clinical trial studies the effect of short-term (acute) and long-term (chronic) exercise on immune characteristics and function (phenotype) of patients with indolent non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) and chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). Most newly-diagnosed CLL patients have early-stage disease at the time of diagnosis and do not require treatment.
View original scientific description
This clinical trial studies the effect of short-term (acute) and long-term (chronic) exercise on immune characteristics and function (phenotype) of patients with indolent non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) and chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). Most newly-diagnosed CLL patients have early-stage disease at the time of diagnosis and do not require treatment. Despite not needing therapy, these patients have significant immune dysfunction. This may lead to an increased risk of serious infections requiring hospitalization and an increased risk of secondary non-blood-based (hematologic) cancers. Increasing CLL patients overall physical fitness levels, through exercise during the observation stage, may provide a realistic approach means to increase survival, decrease treatment-related side effects, and improve immune function. Information learned from this study may help researchers determine whether a particular exercise regimen can be used to strengthen the immune system of indolent NHL and CLL patients, delay time to disease progression, assess the need for treatment, and assess infection rates.
Interventions
PROCEDURE
Biospecimen Collection
Undergo collection of blood
OTHER
Cardiopulmonary Exercise Testing
Undergo CPET
PROCEDURE
Dual X-ray Absorptiometry
Undergo DEXA scan
OTHER
Electronic Health Record Review
Ancillary studies
OTHER
Exercise Intervention
Undergo aerobic based training program
PROCEDURE
Physical Examination
Undergo measurement of height/weight and vital signs
OTHER
Questionnaire Administration
Ancillary studies
PROCEDURE
Spirometry
Undergo spirometry
OTHER
Physical Performance Testing
Undergo muscular strength and functional endurance measurements
OTHER
Best Practice
Receive usual care
Primary outcome measures
Assess circulating immune cell abundance and function pre-intervention
Time frame: Baseline
A standardized questionnaire will be administered to assess levels of past and current physical activity. Baseline measurement of pulmonary function (PFT) will be collected and possibly a body composition scan via dual x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA). While subjects perform cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET), cardiopulmonary vitals will be assessed and monitored throughout exercise and in recovery. A 40 mL venous blood sample will be drawn at baseline and post exercise (80 mL total), along with finger prick measures of blood lactate at rest and early recovery. Blood samples will be evaluated to determine how circulating immune cell abundance and function (via cell counts \& cytokine profile) of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) patients respond to acute (single bout) maximal exercise and how this differs from the response observed in group of age-matched controls by monitoring cardiopulmonary parameters and mobilization of immune cell phenotypes.
Assess circulating immune cell mobilization and function post-intervention
Time frame: Up to 12 weeks
Each subject will participate in a 12-weeks exercise program (3 times per week) at a moderate to high exercise intensity level based upon the results of their cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET)\]. Upon completion of the program, subjects will return to the laboratory for post testing using the same techniques as used during the baseline. Venous blood samples drawn at rest after the program will be used to determine how circulating immune cell mobilization and function (cell counts and cytokine profile) of CLL patients respond to intervention. Usual descriptive statistics will be performed - means, standard deviations, and ranges. Comparisons within a group over time or pre/post will be performed using paired t-tests, while comparisons between groups will be performed using unpaired t-tests or where necessary using ANOVA. Comparisons will be made based on absolute values as well as changes during a test.
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
- English speaking
- Between the ages of 18-80
- Histologically confirmed diagnosis of indolent non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) will be required to participate in Aim 2 (CLL/SLL only), aim 3 and 4 (indolent NHL) and aim 5 (indolent NHL) of this study
Exclusion criteria
- Healthy subjects participating in Aim 1 will be excluded if they have known cardiovascular or pulmonary disease (e.g. heart disease, coronary artery disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease \[COPD\], asthma, etc.) an orthopedic or musculoskeletal limitation which would limit ability to exercise or are a current or former smoker
- Indolent NHL individuals receiving treatment must have least 8 weeks of planned treatment remaining and those who have already received treatment must be at least 6 months post and have no planned treatments during the 12-week intervention period to be eligible. Individuals that are participating prior to receiving treatment must not have any scheduled treatments during their participation. Individuals will be excluded if they have uncontrolled hypertension, cardiac illness, or are not approved by their oncologist to participate
Where
- Scottsdale, Arizona
- Rochester, Minnesota
Related conditions & keywords
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 Apr 9, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations