DNA Methylation and Vascular Function in Obesity: Role of Exercise and Weight Loss
University of Illinois at Chicago
Summary
The main objective is to examine DNA hypomethylation as an underlying mechanism for the increased production of inflammatory cytokines and the impaired vascular function in obese individuals and as a potential target for nonpharmacological preventive/therapeutic interventions such as aerobic exercise.
Description
The long-term goal of this study is to identify valid targets and strategies for the prevention and treatment of obesity-related cardiovascular disease. Obesity is characterized by a large accumulation of fat tissues that secrete numerous inflammatory mediators (called adipocytokines), generating a systemic inflammatory state. These adipocytokines induce vascular dysfunction which is the initial step towards developing cardiovascular disease. Obesity is affected by environmental factors such as diet and physical activity. These factors induce epigenetic changes, which are changes that affect g…
Eligibility
- Age range
- 18–50 years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- Yes
Inclusion Criteria: * BMI ≥ 35 kg/m2 * Between ages 18-50 years * Not pregnant * Approved for a bariatric surgery Exclusion Criteria: * To avoid confounding from other inflammatory conditions individuals with current cancer, heart, kidney or liver disease, gallbladder disease or acute or chronic inflammatory diseases (including rheumatoid arthritis, lupus and other autoimmune diseases and genetic diseases) will be excluded * Pregnant women will be excluded, as they will not be eligible for bariatric surgery * Current smokers * Currently abusing alcohol or drugs
Interventions
- OtherExercise training
Twelve weeks of aerobic exercise training
Location
- University of Illinois at ChicagoChicago, Illinois