Researchers have found a link between chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and heart disease; however, a link is all they have found. Cardiovascular health in COPD is controlled by different mechanisms including vascular health and systemic inflammation. The investigators have collected preliminary data to support that concentrations of Sirtuin 1 (Sirt1), a protein that plays a key role in cardioprotection, may be involved in cardiovascular health in patients with COPD. Resveratrol, an over the counter natural polyphenol found in a variety of food, is a direct activator of Sirt1 and has been used to improve cardiovascular health in different cohorts. The current project is an attempt to expand previous findings and explore the effects of the sub-chronic use of resveratrol in sustaining the improvements in cardiovascular health in COPD.
The present study is designed as a double-blind, randomized, cross-over, placebo-controlled protocol. Patients with COPD will receive either resveratrol (500 mg) or placebo for 12 weeks. A comprehensive evaluation of cardiovascular health will be performed. Results will provide novel insights into the mechanistic role that Sirt1 mediates in COPD related vascular dysfunction and systemic inflammation.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
DOUBLE
Enrollment
26
Over the counter supplementation
Empty white colored soft vegetarian capsule
Virginia Commonwealth University
Richmond, Virginia, United States
Change in Sirt1 concentrations
Circulating concentrations of Sirt1 before and 12 weeks after both resveratrol and placebo
Time frame: Baseline to 12 weeks
Change in vascular health
Assessment of vascular health through the evaluation of peripheral vascular using the flow-mediated dilation technique before and 12 weeks after both resveratrol and placebo.
Time frame: Baseline to 12 weeks
Change in Systemic Inflammation
Systemic inflammation will be evaluated through the assessment of interleukin concentrations using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay before and 12 weeks after both resveratrol and placebo.
Time frame: Baseline to 12 weeks
Change in Nitric Oxide metabolism
Nitric oxide metabolism will be evaluated through Nitric oxide synthase expression using western blot analysis
Time frame: Baseline to 12 weeks
Change in Inflammatory activation
The inflammatory cascade of the nuclear factor kappa B will be evaluated through assessment of p65 and p50 expression using western blot analysis
Time frame: Baseline to 12 weeks
This platform is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.