Exercise & Supplements for Chronic Kidney Disease
(NeurovEx Trial)
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to see if regular cycling exercise, a medication called Kuvan, and common sports supplements can help people with chronic kidney disease improve their exercise ability and manage blood pressure during exercise.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications, but you cannot participate if you are currently taking central alpha agonists (like clonidine) or monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors.
Is exercise and supplementation safe for people with chronic kidney disease?
Exercise, including aerobic and resistance training, appears to be safe for people with chronic kidney disease, as no cardiac events were reported in the studies reviewed. However, combining resistance training with L-arginine supplementation in an animal study did not show the same benefits as exercise alone, suggesting caution with certain supplements.12345
How does the treatment of exercise and supplements for chronic kidney disease differ from other treatments?
This treatment is unique because it combines exercise training with supplements like 6R-BH4, histidine, and beta-alanine, which may improve muscle strength, exercise capacity, and overall quality of life in CKD patients. Unlike standard treatments that focus solely on medication, this approach integrates physical activity and nutritional support to address multiple aspects of the disease.34678
What evidence supports the effectiveness of exercise and supplements as a treatment for chronic kidney disease?
Research shows that aerobic and resistance exercises can help people with chronic kidney disease by reducing inflammation, improving insulin sensitivity, and increasing muscle strength. These exercises may also improve kidney function and overall quality of life, making them beneficial for managing the condition.348910
Who Is on the Research Team?
Joe Nocera, PhD
Principal Investigator
Emory University
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for adults with moderate to severe chronic kidney disease (stages III or IV), which means their kidneys don't filter blood well. They should have stable kidney function without major changes in the last 3 months and not be regular exercisers, working out less than 40 minutes per week.Inclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Baseline Assessment
Measurement of vein constriction response to adrenaline, muscle pH, and muscle oxygenation in CKD patients versus controls
Treatment
Participants undergo exercise training or stretching, with or without 6R-BH4 or histidine and beta-alanine supplementation, 3 times per week
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for changes in muscle oxygenation, vascular responsiveness, and blood pressure response during exercise
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- 6R-BH4
- Exercise training
- Histidine and beta-alanine supplementation
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Emory University
Lead Sponsor
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)
Collaborator