This article is part of aspecial series by Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences (ACS) in celebration of World Heart Day. In this series, we highlight innovative research projects and collaborations that contribute to the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular diseases.
From centenarians to a clinical trial: Can longevity secrets ease heart failure symptoms?
One of the featured projects is a randomized clinical trial led by PhD candidate Charlotte Zwager, investigating a nutritional supplement for people with heart failure. With the supplement the research team hopes to restore the layer lining the inside of blood vessels and provide new opportunities for the management of this condition.
Inspired by Longevity in Blue Zones
The supplement is inspired by the “blue zones,” regions in the world where people frequently live beyond 100 years, and is intended to restore the glycocalyx. The glycocalyx is a gel-like layer lining the inside of blood vessels and plays a vital role in regulating sodium and water balance. In heart failure—as well as in hypertension and diabetes—this layer is often damaged, which may contribute to fluid retention and symptoms such as shortness of breath, swollen ankles, and fatigue.
Restoring the glycocalyx
The research team is exploring whether the supplement can regenerate the glycocalyx and enhance vascular function and sodium buffering. Healthy individuals possess an intact glycocalyx that stores sodium without attracting water, but this mechanism is compromised in heart failure patients. The clinical trial spans 12 weeks, during which participants receive either the supplement or a placebo for 8 weeks. Comprehensive assessments, including blood and urine tests, blood pressure monitoring, microvascular measurements, and quality-of-life evaluations are performed.
Potential impact
By targeting the repair of the glycocalyx, the study hopes to offer a new strategy for heart failure management. “By restoring the glycocalyx, we hope to reduce symptoms related to congestion and prevent hospital admissions,” says Charlotte Zwager, PhD Candidate.