NCT07674758 · Vanderbilt University Medical Center
Modeling Mortality in Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Cardiomyopathy: Identification of Surrogate Outcome Measures for DMD Drug Trials
What this study is about
Dystrophin associated heart dysfunction is a leading cause of death in patients with Duchenne and Becker Muscular dystrophy (DMD/BMD) and Duchenne and Becker muscular dystrophy carriers (MDC); however, the evolution of heart dysfunction is not well-understood.
View original scientific description
Dystrophin associated heart dysfunction is a leading cause of death in patients with Duchenne and Becker Muscular dystrophy (DMD/BMD) and Duchenne and Becker muscular dystrophy carriers (MDC); however, the evolution of heart dysfunction is not well-understood. The central objectives of this proposal are to elucidate this evolution of heart dysfunction and identify measures from cardiac MRI images that can predict death or significant heart disease in patients with DMD/BMD/MDC. This study will create a large clinical and cardiac MRI registry of dystrophin associated heart dysfunction, will utilize advanced image analysis techniques, including deep learning neural networks, to comprehensively evaluate every patient, and will create a risk toolkit accessible to clinicians around the world; this proposal has the potential to improve the quality of life in patients with dystrophin associated heart dysfunction by allowing for earlier and more intensive therapy in patients with severe disease and by identifying surrogate outcome measures for use in therapeutic trials.
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
- Clinical phenotype of Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), Becker muscular dystrophy (BMD), or muscular dystrophy carrier (MDC) confirmed with muscle biopsy or genotype
Exclusion criteria
- Additional genetic or congenital abnormality that may affect cardiovascular function or progression
- Current investigational therapy that may affect cardiovascular function (would preclude ongoing data collection but prior data would still be used)
Where
- Sacramento, California
- Washington D.C., District of Columbia
- Chicago, Illinois
- Indianapolis, Indiana
- Durham, North Carolina
- Columbus, Ohio
- Nashville, Tennessee
- Richmond, Virginia
- Seattle, Washington
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 Jun 30, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations