L-arginine to Reduce Sympathetic Nerve Activity in CKD Patients

Launched by THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT ARLINGTON · Jun 10, 2019

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying whether a substance called L-arginine can help reduce certain nerve activities that increase the risk of heart problems in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). CKD can lead to higher chances of heart disease and death, partly because an overactive nervous system is common in these patients. The researchers believe that a buildup of a specific molecule (ADMA) in CKD might be causing this overactivity. By giving L-arginine through an infusion, they hope to see if it can lower this nerve activity and potentially improve heart health.

To be eligible for this trial, participants need to be between 35 and 75 years old and have CKD at Stage 3 or 4, meaning their kidneys are not working as well as they should. Some individuals, like those with a recent heart attack, certain types of cancer, or other specific health conditions, will not be able to join. Participants in the trial will receive L-arginine and will be monitored closely to see how it affects their nerve activity. This study is currently recruiting participants, and it aims to improve understanding of how to better manage heart health in people with CKD.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • CKD patients classified as Stage 3 and 4 of National Kidney Foundation Classification with estimated glomerular filtration rate (GFR) between 15 and 59 mL/min/1.73 m2 according to the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (MDRD) formula based on serum creatinine, age, gender, and race.
• • Men and women 35 to 75 years of age
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • myocardial infarction
• • heart failure
• • anemia (hemoglobin \<8 g/dl)
• • cancer with current treatment
• • previous organ transplantation
• • immunosuppressant therapy
• • human immunodeficiency virus infection
• • pregnancy and/or lactating
• • current tobacco use
• • taking menopausal drugs (estradiol)
• • treatment for diabetic neuropathy
• • resting heart rate ≥ 100 bpm and
• • systolic blood pressure ≤ 90 mmHg