NCT07563322 · Vanderbilt University Medical Center
Mechanistic Study of Nicotinamide Riboside on NAD+ Biology in Individuals With Combined Pulmonary Hypertension
What this study is about
Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a serious condition that puts strain on the heart and lungs and often leads to frequent hospital stays and shortened life expectancy. The most common cause is heart disease affecting the left side of the heart. A particularly high-risk form, called combined pre- and post-capillary pulmonary hypertension (CPH), occurs in about one in four people with heart failure.
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Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a serious condition that puts strain on the heart and lungs and often leads to frequent hospital stays and shortened life expectancy. The most common cause is heart disease affecting the left side of the heart. A particularly high-risk form, called combined pre- and post-capillary pulmonary hypertension (CPH), occurs in about one in four people with heart failure. There are currently no approved treatments for CPH, and many patients develop right-sided heart failure and die earlier than expected. This study is based on a new approach that uses advanced computer methods to analyze a patient's unique biology and identify potential drug targets. Using this method, we identified nicotinamide riboside (NR) as a promising option for people with CPH. NR is a form of vitamin B3 that helps the body make NAD⁺, a substance essential for how cells produce energy and stay healthy. NAD⁺ plays an important role in how heart and blood vessel cells function. Previous research in animals suggests NR may help improve blood vessel changes in the lungs and support heart function. NR has also shown potential benefits in human studies related to cell energy, mitochondrial health, and reducing oxidative stress. In this study, NR is used only as a dietary supplement that supports normal body processes, not as a proven treatment. The investigators will conduct a small, carefully controlled study in which participants receive NR and a placebo at different times. The goal is to understand how NR affects biological and biochemical markers in the body, not to test whether it improves symptoms or outcomes. Any clinical measurements are included only to help interpret the biological effects.
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
- Aged \>/= 18 to 85 years of age
- Diagnosis of Combined pre-/post-capillary PH (CPH) defined as mean pulmonary artery pressure \>20mmHg, pulmonary capillary wedge pressure \>15mmHg, and pulmonary vascular resistance ³3 Wood units
- NYHA Class I - III
- A qualifying Baseline RHC performed within 2 years of consent Clinical echocardiogram within the prior year with LVEF\>/= 45%
- Stable PH-specific and/or HF medication regimen and ≤1 diuretic adjustment within the three months prior to enrollment.
- Ambulatory - able to perform the walk test
Exclusion criteria
- Pulmonary hypertension due to congenital heart disease, connective tissue disease, or heritable pulmonary arterial hypertension
- Prohibited from regular activity due to wheelchair bound status, bed-bound status, reliance on a cane/walker, activity-limiting angina, activity-limiting osteoarthritis, or other conditions that limit activity
- Drug and toxin-associated PAH patients with active drug use
- Prior or active diagnosis of cirrhosis
- Active Malignancy
- Patients with evidence of moderate to severe hepatic impairment, defined as Child-Pugh Class B or C, or with alanine aminotransferase (ALT) or aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels greater than 3 times the upper limit of normal (ULN), should be excluded
- eGFR by MDRD \<30mL/mi
- FEV1\< 60% predicted with more than mild abnormalities on lung imaging Current enrollment in or completion of any other investigational product study within 30 days of Screening.
- Hospitalization for any indication within 30 days of Day 1.
- History of severe allergic or anaphylactic reaction or hypersensitivity to NR
- No known mutation in NDUFB7
Where
- Nashville, Tennessee
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 May 4, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations