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Study identifier: NCT06334107 Synced from ClinicalTrials.gov · July 29, 2026
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Mitochondrial DNA Signatures of Poor Aerobic Exercise Trainability in Young Adults Born Preterm

Condition: Preterm Birth  ·  Sponsor: Texas Tech University

PhaseNA
Planned participants60
Who can joinAll sexes, 18 Years to 35 Years
Healthy volunteersYes

About this study

Young adults born very preterm (32 weeks gestation or earlier) do not respond well to aerobic exercise training, meeting the recommendations set by the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans, where they do not increase their fitness level (or cardiorespiratory fitness). Thus, they do not receive the health benefits of exercise. Achieving physical fitness through aerobic exercise training is the most cost-effective method for preventing and treating many diseases. Young adults born very preterm also have a higher risk of these conditions. Thus, their inability to respond to increase their fitness is a major problem. One likely explanation for poor exercise trainability and increased heart disease risk in young adults born very preterm is the effect of the early birth on the major energy producers in all our cells: Mitochondria. During late-stage gestation, mitochondria change from relying on sugar as a major fuel source to fat. Unfortunately, individuals born very preterm miss this transition in fuel source reliance, which causes significant stress and damage to mitochondria. Mitochondria are critical for post-natal organ development; thus, it is thought that preterm birth-induced mitochondrial dysfunction is the underlying cause of poor trainability and high disease risk in young adults born very preterm. Indeed, mitochondrial dysfunction is evident in these individuals. To date, there is not a way to help young adults born preterm improve their fitness level. One likel…

This description comes directly from the study's public registry record.

Talk to the study team

Heather L Vellers, Ph.D.  ·  8068348554  ·  heather.l.vellers@ttu.edu

Heather L Vellers, Ph.D.  ·  9792194343  ·  heather.l.vellers@ttu.edu

Always discuss trial participation with your own doctor first.

Locations (1)

Texas Tech University | Kinesiology and Sport Management BuildingLubbock, Texas, United StatesRecruiting

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Source record: clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT06334107