Targeting Inflammation in Heart Failure with Reduced Ejection Fraction with Probiotics

Project Description Narrative:

Heart failure has significant morbidity and mortality and is one of the leading causes of hospital admissions in the U.S. The prognosis is poor for patients with heart failure despite significant medical therapy regimens and device therapy. According to the Wisconsin Department of Health Services, heart failure mortality rates have been increasing since 1980. Wisconsin also consistently has higher rates of heart failure compared to other states.

Persistent inflammation is a well-established pathogenic factor of chronic heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). Emerging data suggest that targeting the gut microbiota in HFrEF could be a safe and effective alternative for mitigating inflammation.

This pilot study will target the gut microbiota of patients with HFrEF with oral supplementation with 20 billion cfu/day of Lp299 to determine if Lp299v improves peak oxygen consumption, endothelial function, and vascular stiffness. Following the successful completion of the proposed pilot study, researchers will use the preliminary data generated to support the need for and feasibility of a well-powered and designed clinical trial testing Lp299v as an intervention to improve the measured parameters in HFrEF. They plan to submit the rationale and plan for this trial for National Institutes of Health grant funding.