471 Clinical Trials for Various Conditions
This study will evaluate the feasibility of using a sub-therapeutic dose of a fluorine-18 analogue of NP-59 (\[18F\]FNP-59) to image the adrenal gland. Some participants are healthy normal subjects but have undergone interventions to manipulate hormones while other participants have known adrenal pathology.
This exploratory, first-in-man, phase 0 study will evaluate the feasibility of using a sub-therapeutic dose of a fluorine-18 analogue of NP-59 (\[18F\]FNP-59) to image the adrenal gland in healthy normal subjects. The researchers believe that \[18F\]FNP-59 would greatly improve the imaging characteristics, by providing a PET imaging cholesterol analogue with significantly improved radiation dosimetry.
The purpose of this study is to examine whether the daily consumption of 5 g of milk polar lipids influences serum lipids and gut microbiota composition in healthy adults.
Hypothesis: increasing dietary cholesterol in humans will increase visceral, but not subcutaneous adipocyte size, free cholesterol content, and inflammatory gene expression. Visceral and abdominal subcutaneous adipose tissue biopsies will be obtained from non-obese subjects undergoing elective abdominal surgery at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center after 3 weeks of zero (control) or 1g dietary cholesterol supplementation. Blood samples will also be taken before and after 3 weeks of dietary supplementation (0 vs. 1g dietary cholesterol) to measure plasma lipids levels, and ex vivo monocyte chemotaxis. Blood will also be used to isolate CD14+ monocytes for RNA extraction and storage for future transcriptome studies. Measurements of adipocyte size, free cholesterol content, and inflammatory gene and protein expression in the adipose tissue biopsies to test the hypothesis. Adipocytes and the stromal vascular fraction will be isolated and evaluated for CD14+ macrophages for RNA extraction and storage for future transcriptome analysis.
The Physicians Committee is carrying out a research study to improve the investigator's understanding and expand the literature to quantify the effect of foods on blood cholesterol. This study will measure changes in low density lipoprotein (LDL) concentration, sometimes called "bad cholesterol," over 2 study periods of 4 weeks each, with 1 rest week in between. Approximately 50 subjects will participate in this study.
Elevated blood cholesterol, and particularly LDL cholesterol, is a risk factor for heart disease. Tocotrienols are naturally-occurring compounds in foods that may have beneficial effects on blood cholesterol. Tocotrienols are members of the vitamin E family, and are found in barley, oats, rye, coconut oil and rice bran oil, but the richest source of tocotrienols is palm oil. Certain of these tocotrienols have been shown to be effective in lowering LDL (or 'bad') cholesterol, with no adverse effects on the HDL (or 'good') cholesterol. The purpose of this study is to determine the effects of a palm-oil derived tocotrienol supplement on blood cholesterol, and particularly LDL cholesterol, in individuals who are taking statins, and have either elevated or normal cholesterol levels. Study subjects will consume a palm-oil derived supplement of tocotrienol for 3 months to determine its effects on LDL cholesterol.
Pycrinil® is a purified extract of the artichoke leaf. Artichoke leaf extract (ALE) has some clinical trial data suggesting benefit in the treatment of cholesterol disorders in several countries, but this effect has not been studied in a U.S. population. The investigators will give ALE or a placebo to overweight men and women with low "good" cholesterol to see if ALE increases their good cholesterol. The investigators will also make sure that ALE is safe.
The objectives of the research are to assess the effects of increased protein and fiber intake at breakfast on neural activation in brain regions associated with appetitive drive and reward-driven eating, measures of subjective appetite, and ingestive behavior in overweight adults. Additional outcomes of interest include the effects of the breakfast intervention on blood sugar and cholesterol profiles.
The purpose of this study is to determine the effects of a palm-oil derived tocotrienol (TRF) supplement or Chinese red yeast rice (CRYR) individually and in combination on blood cholesterol, and particularly LDL cholesterol, in individuals who have either elevated or normal cholesterol levels. Tocotrienols are members of the vitamin E family, and are found in barley, oats, rye, coconut oil and rice bran oil, but the richest source of tocotrienols is palm oil. Certain of these tocotrienols have been shown to be effective in lowering LDL (or 'bad') cholesterol, with no adverse effects on the HDL (or 'good') cholesterol.
The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of a food-source nutrient containing bitter orange by comparing changes 45 blood chemistries and self-reported quality of life.
The purpose of this study is to show that we can effectively deliver health information and education, online, via computer regarding cholesterol. This computer program is called the Interactive Cholesterol Advisory Tool (ICAT).
The underlying hypothesis is that whole body cholesterol - including cholesterol present in tissues that cannot be measured by standard blood tests - is related to heart disease risk. Endogenous cholesterol will be labeled with an intravenous infusion of one type of cholesterol tracer and dietary cholesterol will be labeled with another. These tracers will be used to measure how fast cholesterol is synthesized and excreted using mass spectrometry to distinguish the tracers. Data will be related to circulating biomarkers (blood tests) and to the thickness of the lining of the carotid artery. The effect of the drug ezetimibe on these processes will also be determined. Successful completion of this study will give us more knowledge about cholesterol metabolism that may be useful in designing new drugs and treatments for patients with heart disease, especially those that are already receiving maximum amounts of current medications.
Compared to other races, African-Americans with type 2 diabetes have different cholesterol levels, specifically triglycerides and low density lipoprotein. Recent data has shown the not only are cholesterol levels important in determining the risk for cardiovascular disease, but the size of the cholesterol particles and surface proteins on the cholesterol particles are also important. The objective of this study is to determine if African-American males with diabetes have different particle size, surface proteins, and cholesterol genetic links than African-American male without diabetes and Caucasian-American males with and without diabetes. African-American males with type 2 diabetes and not taking lipid-lowering medications are the current target population. After obtaining an informed consent, a complete medical history will be obtained and subjects will be examined, noninvasively, for physical signs of elevated cholesterol levels. Afterwards, blood samples \[one venous puncture, 6 tubes (21 mL total)\] will be obtained. Blood samples will be coded, sent to Berkeley Heart Lab and/or Clinical Laboratory Services, and undergo genetic testing at Mercer University College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences. Confidentiality of the subjects will be explained in the consenting process to the subjects. All subject samples and information will be coded. Each subject will be given a subject number upon consenting and this will be used throughout the study. All pertinent information of the subjects will be listed under the designated number, but will not be associated with that patient.
We hypothesize that administration of anti-inflammatory medications such as celecoxib, naprosyn and diclofenac will cause changes in the blood plasma and white blood cells of patients such that they will be less able to efficiently process cholesterol.
Pterostilbene is one of several stilbenes found in certain berries, particularly blueberries, that have demonstrated pre-clinical benefit to cholesterol, blood pressure, and oxidative stress. The purpose of this study is to evaluate whether pterostilbene will help control cholesterol and blood pressure, as well as improve markers for oxidative stress in patients with dyslipidemia meeting inclusion criteria. The investigators also want to look at the safety of pterostilbene in these patients.
Great controversy exists about the feasibility and safety of a product that can be employed for self-directed cholesterol reduction. The position that self-directed cholesterol lowering could lead those that do not need lower cholesterol to take the product is likely unfounded. This is because there is no convincing evidence to suggest that there are cholesterol levels so low that a lower one would not be beneficial or conversely be dangerous. Ample evidence exists that cholesterol causes cardiovascular disease and that lower cholesterol places individuals and populations at lower risk. Because of the high cost, insurance concerns and suboptimal access to physician care, a self-directed, effective and safe approach to cholesterol maintenance or reduction would be very desirable. Drug therapy also has been associated with suboptimal results. Though a new concept that addresses cholesterol by several mechanisms simultaneously has been shown to be more consistently effective and with better tolerability, there is still a need for a self-directed cholesterol optimizing alternative. It is, therefore, our intent in this study to evaluate certain foods, specifically nutraceutical containing fruit flavored drinks in the hopes that they can be proven a safe and effective alternative approach for cholesterol management.
Background: * Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a leading cause of death in developed countries. Although statin-type drugs are currently the most effective therapeutic agents for reducing CVD risk. One possible complementary approach involves the use of soluble dietary fibers that are known to reduce blood cholesterol levels. However, analysis has shown that most soluble fibers reduce total cholesterol levels by relatively small amounts. * Alpha-Cyclodextrin (Alpha-CD), also sold in commerical form, is a soluble fiber derived from corn that is used as an ingredient in many foods, such as bread rolls, crackers, juices, and reduced fat spreads. It is added to food primarily as a fiber supplement but is also used to stabilize flavors, colors, vitamins, and fatty acids. Studies in animals and humans have shown that Alpha-CD may help to improve insulin resistance and lower LDL cholesterol levels with no apparent side effects. More research is needed to determine the effect of Alpha-CD on total cholesterol levels in healthy volunteers. Objectives: - To determine the effect of oral Alpha-CD on total cholesterol in a nondiabetic population.
This study involves people with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder, who are currently taking antipsychotic medications. Some antipsychotic medications may cause an increase in cholesterol levels, which may lead to inflammation in the body. Inflammation poses a risk in developing heart disease, diabetes and problems with brain function. The purpose of this study is to see if pravastatin can: * Lower cholesterol * Decrease inflammation * Improve cognition in patients with schizophrenia
All patients will be in instructed to eat a therapeutic lifestyle diet and will receive CP-690,550 throughout the 12 weeks of this study. After 6 weeks, half will receive the cholesterol lowering agent, atorvastatin, and half a matching placebo. This study will first measure the effects of CP-690,550 on cholesterol levels and then the effects of adding atorvastatin on those levels.
Background: This is a randomized controlled trial (RCT) of two novel behavioral interventions to enhance treatment adherence and improve low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL) in diabetes. Among adults with diabetes, high LDL greatly increases their risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD). Despite the proven efficacy of LDL control(\<100 mg/dL) in preventing CVD, the control rate is low. Poor adherence to treatment(diet, exercise and medication) is the main reason for this poor control. Aims: This study will test two telephone-delivered interventions, a Transtheoretical stage-matched intervention (SMI) and a Prospect theory-based framing effects intervention (FEI). The investigators hypothesize that both SMI and FEI will be more effective in improving LDL control than an attention placebo intervention (API) at 6 months. SMI and FEI will also be more effective in increasing adherence to medications, diet and exercise than API at 6 months. Methods: The investigators will recruit 246 adults with diabetes and high LDL despite being on medications. Key outcomes are adherence to diet, exercise and medication, and LDL control. The interventions will be standardized and fidelity of intervention maintained. Using a blinded RCT the investigators will test the effect of SMI and FEI compared to API on LDL control and adherence. All analyses will be intent to treat. Significance: This project will provide important information to improve diabetes-related behavior and lead to the implementation of novel interventions for lowering LDL in primary care settings among adults with diabetes. It may also provide the scientific rationale to use such approaches to control other risk factors in diabetes.
This study evaluates the effect on LDL cholesterol of the 3 drugs given together in the cardiovascular fixed dose combination pill (acetylsalicylic acid, simvastatin, and ramipril) as compared to the effect on LDL cholesterol of simvastatin given alone. Approximately 76 subjects will be screened, 60 randomized in order about 52 subjects to finish the study.
Background: - Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are developmental disabilities characterized by impaired social interaction and repetitive and/or stereotypical behaviors. Research studies suggest that some individuals with ASD have very low blood cholesterol levels. This low cholesterol level and other abnormal sterol levels may be important markers for subtypes of ASD. Providing additional cholesterol to the diets of children with ASD may help improve behavior. - These findings will guide the medical community in identifying individuals who should be tested for sterol disorders. This study will also help researchers learn whether adding extra cholesterol to the diet will improve behavioral and other autism spectrum characteristics seen in individuals with ASD and low cholesterol. Objectives: * To determine cholesterol levels in children with autism spectrum disorders. * To compare behavioral and other characteristics among children who have autism spectrum disorders and high, low, or normal cholesterol levels. * To determine whether adding cholesterol to the diet will improve behavioral and other characteristics in individuals with ASD and low cholesterol. Eligibility: - Children between the ages of 4 and 12 who have been diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder. Design: * Initial screening study will involve a collection of blood samples (for study purposes and cholesterol testing). * Children who have low cholesterol levels will take part in a study in which they will receive either cholesterol supplementation or a placebo, and will have detailed physical and psychological examinations to measure possible improvement in behavioral or other characteristics. * Children who have high or normal cholesterol levels will have further blood samples taken, and will undergo an additional set of examinations for comparison purposes. * Researchers may request blood or DNA samples from other family members (parents or siblings), which will be collected through blood draws and cheek swabs.
This study is a Phase 1, single-center, placebo-controlled, single-blind, first-in-human, single-ascending dose study in male and female subjects with high cholesterol. A maximum of 32 subjects is planned for enrollment in this study.
The purpose of this study is to investigate an oral formulation of RVX000222 for safety, pharmacokinetic and efficacy in healthy subjects.
To determine whether 8 weeks of Niaspan treatment increases cholesterol efflux in male subjects with low HDL-C cholesterol when compared to no treatment. To determine whether 8 weeks of Niaspan treatment increases fecal cholesterol excretion when compared to no treatment. To determine whether 8 weeks of Niaspan treatment increases the rate of global reverse cholesterol transport when compared to no treatment.
The purpose of this study is to compare the effect on LDL cholesterol levels of converting patients who are receiving the cholesterol absorption inhibitor Zetia at a dose of 10 milligrams to 5 milligrams, when prescribed as a split 10 milligram tablet.
A Multicenter Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study to evaluate the efficacy, safety and tolerability of MBX-8025, a novel PPAR-d agonist to treat hyperlipidemia, insulin resistance and obesity in overweight, hyperlipidemic patients, both as monotherapy and in combination with Atorvastatin Total participation for each patient is approximately 16-17 weeks, which may include up to a 2 week screening period, 5 week run-in period, 8 week treatment period, and 2 week follow-up. During the run-in period patients taking statins, statin combination or Zetia will undergo a 'washout'. All patients will be instructed to follow a weight-maintenance diet (i.e., their same diet prior to entering the study). They will be asked to defer initiating any weight loss diets or meaningful changes in their activity level until after they have completed the study. Once randomized into the double blind study, patients will visit the clinic every two weeks thereafter until the end of the study. At the end of the 8-week treatment phase, the double-blind study medication will be discontinued. Patients will attend a follow up visit two weeks after their final dose for safety evaluation.
The overall objective of the CAP study was to determine genetic influences on efficacy of simvastatin treatment with regard to LDL cholesterol reduction and changes in other markers of cardiovascular disease risk.
The postmenopausal state is associated with an increase risk for heart disease. Much of this increase in risk may be due to the loss of estrogen (the main female hormone) and the effect of this loss on lipids (blood fats). This loss of estrogen is often treated by estrogen replacement therapy. Estrogen replacement therapy seems to have a beneficial effect on lipid levels. The purpose of this research study is to understand 1) how menopause affects lipids and 2) how hormone replacement therapy effects the lipid metabolism of postmenopausal women.
The purpose of this study is to determine whether supplementation with an oil-based cholesterol suspension will correct the biochemical abnormalities in cholesterol and its precursors in individuals with the Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome.