Heart Failure in Patients With Diabetes: Cells, Crosstalk and Consequences
This research aims to understand how type 2 diabetes and heart failure, particularly different types of heart failure (where the heart pumps less or the heart muscle is stiff), interact at a cellular level. We'll compare 600 people across several groups: those with heart failure, those with diabetes, those with both, and healthy individuals. Participants will have heart scans, exercise tests, blood tests, and some may provide small samples of fat and muscle. The goal is to build a detailed picture of how these conditions affect the body's cells and tissues, helping researchers find better ways to treat them. This is an observational study, meaning no new treatments will be given.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This study is designed to help us better understand heart failure and type 2 diabetes, two common health conditions that often occur together and can make each other worse. Heart failure means your heart isn't pumping blood as effectively as it should, leading to symptoms like breathlessness, swelling, and difficulty exercising. Diabetes is a condition where your body struggles to control blood sugar levels, which can lead to various health problems, including significant issues with your heart.
We know these conditions frequently go hand-in-hand and can seriously impact a person's quality of life and lifespan. What we don't fully understand is *how* they interact closely at a detailed level within the body. This study will explore how cells in different parts of the body, like fat, muscle, and blood vessels, communicate with the heart, and how this communication might be different in people with diabetes and heart failure.
By gathering detailed information from various groups of people, we hope to build a comprehensive picture of these conditions. This deeper understanding of what's happening inside the body – looking at tiny cell changes and how different organs talk to each other – is crucial. It could help doctors to focus existing treatments more effectively and guide the development of brand-new ways to help people living with heart failure and diabetes.
Key takeaways
- This study explores how type 2 diabetes and heart failure interact.
- It's an 'observational' study, meaning no new treatments are given.
- Researchers will study cells, tissues, and communication within the body.
- Participation involves various health assessments, scans, and blood tests.
- The goal is to improve understanding and future treatments for these conditions.
- You can withdraw from the study at any time.
Who may be eligible?
To take part in this study, you must be 18 years or older and be able to understand the study information and give your consent. You also need to be mentally capable of following the study instructions.
There are certain reasons why you wouldn't be able to join. For example, if you have very low blood iron (anaemia), an active infection like pneumonia, or if your heart failure is caused by a serious infection. Also, if you've recently had a heart attack or chest pain from blocked arteries, or if you have severe kidney, liver, or lung problems, you wouldn't be eligible.
Pregnant or breastfeeding women, people who are in care homes or prisons by official order, and those who work for or are related to the study team cannot participate. Additionally, if you've recently taken part in another study involving a new medication within the last month, you wouldn't be able to join this one.
- Are you 18 years old or over?
- Can you understand information about the study and agree to take part?
- Do you have severe anaemia (very low iron in your blood)?
- Do you have an active infection, like pneumonia, right now?
- Are you currently pregnant or breastfeeding?
- Have you participated in another study with a new medication in the last month?
This is a guide only — the research team will confirm whether you can take part.
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part, you'll be one of 600 participants. This is an observational study, which means we won't be giving you any new medicines or treatments; we'll simply be observing and collecting information about your health. You will undergo several assessments, which may include special heart scans, tests to see how well you can exercise, blood tests, and checks on your automatic nervous system (which controls body functions like heart rate). For some participants, we will also ask for small samples of fat, muscle, and cells from blood vessel linings to examine them closely. The study doesn't specify the exact number of visits or the total duration, but it will involve comprehensive data collection.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS TrustLeeds, United Kingdom· Recruiting
Common questions
What is an observational study?
An observational study means researchers are just watching and collecting information about your health. We won't give you any new medications or treatments.
Will I get results from my tests?
The study's primary goal is research, but any results that are important for your immediate health will be shared with you and your doctor.
How long will I be involved in the study?
The study doesn't specify the exact duration for each participant, but it involves comprehensive collection of health information at various points.
Will I need to change my current medications?
No, this study does not involve changing your current medications or treatments.
Why is this research important?
This research is important because it will help us understand how diabetes and heart failure affect each other at a very detailed level, which could lead to better treatments in the future.
How to find out more
Klaus Witte, MD
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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