NCT05880108 · VA Office of Research and Development
Modifying Adiposity Through Behavioral Strategies to Improve COVID-19 Rehabilitation
(MARVEL)
What this study is about
The research in this VA Merit will examine the effects of obesity and Post-COVID Conditions (PCC) on physical functioning, health-related quality of life, and adipose tissue inflammatory and cellular senescence profiles in older Veterans.
View original scientific description
The research in this VA Merit will examine the effects of obesity and Post-COVID Conditions (PCC) on physical functioning, health-related quality of life, and adipose tissue inflammatory and cellular senescence profiles in older Veterans. Further, it will evaluate whether a weight loss intervention, including dietary modification and exercise, in obese Veterans with and without PCC will reduce systemic and adipose tissue inflammation and senescence and promote PCC recovery.
Interventions
BEHAVIORAL
12-weeks of Weight Loss
Participants will be asked to participate in a 1x/week center-based or tele-health nutrition diet class, 2x/week center-based exercise classes, and 1x/week exercise session conducted on their own for \~12 weeks.
BEHAVIORAL
12-weeks of Weight Stability
Participants will be asked to participate in a 1x/week center-based or tele-health education class, 2x/week center-based stretching/balance classes, and 1x/week stretching/balance session conducted on their own for \~12 weeks.
Primary outcome measures
Cardiorespiratory Fitness (VO2max)
Time frame: Baseline
VO2max (ml/kg/min) comparison between lean PCC naïve, lean with PCC, obese PCC naïve, and obese with PCC
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
- U.S. Veteran
- Self-reported COVID-19 naïve or COVID-19 \> 90 days ago for lean and obese PCC naïve or documented COVID-19 for the lean and obese PCC groups (At least one PCC symptom \>4 weeks)
- Body Mass Index: 19-25 or 30-50 kg/m2
Exclusion criteria
- Neurologic, musculoskeletal, or other condition that limits subject's ability to complete study physical assessments
- Active inflammatory, COVID-19, autoimmune, infectious, hepatic (LFTs \> 2.5 x WNL), renal (eGFR\<45), gastrointestinal, malignant, and psychiatric disease
- Uncontrolled diabetes (HbA1c \>10% or the current use of insulin)
- Weight change within the past month of \>5 kg
- Self-reported alcohol or drug abuse
- Anti-coagulant medication usage
Where
- Baltimore, Maryland
- San Antonio, Texas
Collaborators
Baltimore VA Medical Center, South Texas Veterans Health Care System
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 Jun 1, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations