Effect of exercise training on vascular function and endothelial repair in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction: results from the OptimEx trial

Abstract Background Exercise training improves peak oxygen uptake (VO2) in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), but the underlying mechanisms are unknown. In other cardiovascular diseases, exercise vascular function and increases levels of circulating endothelium-repairing cells. We aimed to investigate effects moderate continuous (MCT) high intensity interval (HIIT) on cellular endothelial repair HFpEF. Methods This was a prespecified subanalysis Optimizing Training Prevention Treatment Diastolic Heart Failure randomized trial. HFpEF patients (n=180) were HIIT, MCT or attention control. At baseline after 12 weeks, we measured VO2, fingertip arterial tonometry (n=109), brachial artery flow-mediated dilation (n=59), aortic pulse wave velocity (n=94), flow cytometry (n=136) for progenitor cells (CD45dimCD34+VEGFR2+) angiogenic T (CD3+CD31+CD184+). Changes these parameters compared between groups using linear mixed models. Parameters correlated Spearman's rho. Results 3 months, did not observe significant differences control group regarding changes throughout tree (fingertip tonometry, central stiffness, Table 1) (endothelial cells, 1). similar at months when restricting analysis least 70% adherence sessions. Patients higher VO2 had lower numbers (rho=−0.22, p=0.011). Conclusions HFpEF, change Thus, improved likely does contribute training. These findings contrast benefits reduced coronary disease. FUNDunding Acknowledgement Type funding sources: Public grant(s) – EU funding. Main source(s): Framework Programme 7 1