ADMIRAL-HF
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Novel Mechanisms of Autonomic Dysfunction in chronic heart failure – effects of Iron Replacement therapy on skeletal muscle metaboreflex and contribution to sympathetic nerve activation. \t\t\t\t
IRAS ID
252618
Contact name
Angus Nightingale
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Bristol
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 1 months, 31 days
Research summary
Chronic heart failure is a common condition whereby the pumping function of the heart is reduced. Many other body systems are affected after the start of this illness. These effects contribute to the symptoms experienced in the condition. We are interested in the relationship between iron deficiency, found in roughly half of chronic heart failure patients, and the activity of the autonomic nervous system. This nervous system controls blood pressure, heart rate and the body’s response to exertion. It is overactive in chronic heart failure. This overactivity worsens chronic heart failure. Iron is crucial in effective muscle function. We think that iron deficiency may be causing changes within the muscle leading to increased activity of the sensors within muscle that influence the autonomic nervous system. We intend to treat a group of iron deficient heart failure patients with intravenous iron and assess if treatment leads to a beneficial reduction in autonomic nervous system activity. They will be compared at baseline with chronic heart failure patients with normal iron levels.\n\nTreatment of iron deficiency in chronic heart failure is a recommended treatment. It can improve symptoms and reduce admissions. We are unsure of the mechanism whereby this is achieved. This study will assess a possible cause. Participation in the study will be offered to chronic heart failure patients seen in cardiac clinics in Bristol. Assessments will be performed in the Clinical Research and Imaging Centre in Bristol. This is a site used by the University of Bristol and University Hospitals of Bristol. Assessments will include measuring physical observations during gentle exercise and recording the activity of peripheral nerves. These observations can help us assess the autonomic nervous system and whether activity changes post treatment. Treatment will intravenous iron will be administered in the Bristol Royal Infirmary.
REC name
South West - Frenchay Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
19/SW/0098
Date of REC Opinion
28 Jun 2019
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion