NCT07430839 · University of Wisconsin, Madison
Exercise and Carotid Artery Function in Metabolic Syndrome
What this study is about
The purpose of this study is to determine 1) if young adults with metabolic syndrome display endothelial dysfunction of the internal carotid artery in a sex-specific fashion and 2) if this endothelial dysfunction can be acutely improved with a single bout of exercise. This will be achieved by testing internal carotid artery function before and after a 30-minute bout of moderate intensity exercise.
View original scientific description
The purpose of this study is to determine 1) if young adults with metabolic syndrome display endothelial dysfunction of the internal carotid artery in a sex-specific fashion and 2) if this endothelial dysfunction can be acutely improved with a single bout of exercise. This will be achieved by testing internal carotid artery function before and after a 30-minute bout of moderate intensity exercise. 48 young adults with and without metabolic syndrome will be enrolled and will be on study for approximately 5.5 hours over 4 study visits.
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
- (MetSyn cohort):
- Waist circumference greater than 102 cm (males) or 82 cm (females)
- Triglycerides over 150 mg/dL
- HDL cholesterol less than 40 mg/dL (males) or 50 mg/dL (females)
- Blood pressure ≥130/85 mmHg
- Fasting plasma glucose over 110 mg/dL Inclusion Criteria (Healthy cohort): \- meet age criteria
Exclusion criteria
- Current smoker, defined as more than 5 cigarettes over past 30 days
- Current diagnosis or history of:
- peripheral vascular disease
- hepatic disease
- renal disease
- lung disease
- gastrointestinal disorders/bleeding
- hematologic disease
- myocardial infarction
- coronary heart disease
- congestive heart failure
- heart surgery
- sleep apnea
- autoimmune diseases
- traumatic brain injury, concussion, stroke, or seizures
- Polycystic ovarian syndrome
- Type II diabetes
- Currently pregnant or breastfeeding
- Current musculoskeletal injury Medication use known to influence cardiovascular function, other than oral contraceptives
- Hormonal contraceptive use, such as intrauterine device or hormonal implant use
- Participants with ICAs unsuitable for imaging, as assessed during the screening visit via doppler ultrasonography Exclusion Criteria (healthy controls only):
- BMI greater than 25 kg/m2
- Blood pressure over 125/80 mmHg
- Meeting any MetSyn criteria listed for MetSyn cohort
Where
- Madison, Wisconsin
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 25, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations