Mitochondrial Derived Reactive Oxygen Species on Cardiovascular Health in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

The Influence of Mitochondrial Derived Reactive Oxygen Species on Cardiovascular Health in Patients With Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Cardiovascular health is a critical problem in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Existing literature suggests oxidative stress from the mitochondria c driving some of the poor health outcomes in COPD. MitoQ is a mitochondrial-targeted antioxidant that has shown promise in improving cardiovascular outcomes in similar populations. Thus the purpose of this study is to test if MitoQ can improve cardiovascular health in COPD.

In this study, a mitochondria-specific antioxidant will be compared to a placebo. Participants will be assigned randomly to receive either the antioxidant or the placebo for 6 weeks. A comprehensive assessment of cardiovascular health will be conducted before and after the administration of the supplement.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Clinically diagnosed of COPD
• Global Initiative for obstructive lung disease (GOLD) Stages II to IV

Exclusion Criteria:

• Forced Expiratory Volume in 1 second/ Functional Vital Capacity (FEV1/FVC) >0.7
• Heart Disease
• Diabetes
• Vasoactive medications
• Uncontrolled high blood pressure
• Fluid in lungs
• Sleep apnea
• Raynaud's Phenomenon
• Gangrene of the digits
• History of coagulation
• Pregnant women
• Children