NCT06930638 · Medical College of Wisconsin
MitoQ and Ischemic Conditioning To Assess Vascular Health Outcomes
(MITO)
What this study is about
Stroke survivors have compromised vascular function which may contribute to secondary stroke risk, cardiovascular disease, and may limit their exercise tolerance. Preliminary data shows a single bout of ischemic conditioning or taken by mouth ingestion of an over-the-counter antioxidant supplement called MitoQ may improve vascular function and muscle activity in individuals post-stroke.
View original scientific description
Stroke survivors have compromised vascular function which may contribute to secondary stroke risk, cardiovascular disease, and may limit their exercise tolerance. Preliminary data shows a single bout of ischemic conditioning or oral ingestion of an over-the-counter antioxidant supplement called MitoQ may improve vascular function and muscle activity in individuals post-stroke.
Interventions
DEVICE
Ischemic Conditioning
The cuff will be placed around the proximal, non-affected thigh and inflated for 5 minutes in a supine or semi-reclined position, then released for a 5-minute recovery period. Five cycles of inflation and recovery will be performed (45 minutes total).These inflations will be done using a cuff similar to what is used for taking blood pressure.
DIETARY_SUPPLEMENT
Antioxidant Supplement
MitoQ is an over the counter supplement that increases delivery to the mitochondria. Similar to studies performed in middle age/older adults and individuals with peripheral arterial disease, we will administer 1 single oral dose of 80mg of MitoQ or a placebo pill. As MitoQ reaches peak concentrations at \~40 to 60 minutes after ingestion, we will wait 45 minutes (time matched to Ischemic conditioning).
Primary outcome measures
Brachial Artery Flow-Mediated Dilation
Time frame: Change from BL to Post Intervention (5 hours)
We will measure brachial artery vascular health in the non-paretic arm. Baseline brachial artery diameter and blood flow velocity through the artery will be measured before and after a pneumatic forearm cuff is inflated to 225 mmHg for five minutes.
Microvascular Vasodilation
Time frame: Change from BL to Post Intervention (5 hours)
Laser Doppler Flowmetry (LDF) with Dermal Microdialysis (DM) will measure blood flow flux during microinfusions of study drugs (limited to an area on the skin approximately the size of a nickel) to examine endothelial dependent vasodilation (Acetylcholine, ACh) and nitric-oxide mediated vasodilation (ACH +/- LNAME, and endothelial nitric oxide synthase inhibitor).
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
- 18 - 85 years of age
- Cortical or sub-cortical stroke ≥ 6 months ago with residual hemiparesis
- Able to give informed consent and follow 2-step command.
- English Speaking
Exclusion criteria
- Unable to stand from chair without physical assistance from another person (able to use assistive device).
- History of blood clots in the extremities or any condition in which compression of the thigh or transient ischemia is contraindicated (i.e., wounds in the leg).
- Chronic lasting symptoms (\> 6 months) of severe COVID-19 (i.e., hospitalization)
- History of head trauma or concussion within the past 6 months
- Comorbid neurological disorder
- Peripheral vascular disease
- Myocardial infarction or arrhythmia in the previous year
- Resting SBP ≥180 mmHg or DBP ≥ 100 mmHg
- Pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Other significant medical condition likely to influence study or jeopardize safety as assessed by the Primary Investigator
Where
- Milwaukee, Wisconsin
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 Sep 25, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations