Endothelial Dysfunction in Obese Children (EDOC)

• Change from baseline in Reactive Hyperemia Index at 5 and 10 months [ Time Frame: Baseline - 5 months - 10 months ] [ Designated as safety issue: No ]
  Reactive Hyperemia Index as assessed using endoPAT (R) is used as a marker for endothelial function
  
  

• Change from baseline in exercise capacity at 5 and 10 months [ Time Frame: Baseline - 5 months - 10 months ] [ Designated as safety issue: No ]
  Exercise capacity will be assessed using bicycle ergometry
  
  
• Change from baseline in Body Mass Index and body composition at 5 and 10 months [ Time Frame: Baseline - 5 months - 10 months ] [ Designated as safety issue: No ]
  Weight and Length will be assessed to calculate Body Mass Index(BMI) and BMI-Z-score. Dual-X-Ray Absorptiometry will be used to estimate body composition
  
  

The favorable responses of combined treatment strategies, consisting of exercise training and proper diet change, for childhood and adolescent obesity on vascular health are poorly understood. The overall objective of this research project is to investigate the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms that mediate these beneficial effects.

Particularly, the following aims are set forth:

1. To establish the effect of a combined lifestyle intervention, i.e. an individualized exercise training and caloric restriction program, on vascular function (primary endpoint) and structure in a substantial population of obese adolescents.
2. To characterize causal pathways between obesity and endothelial dysfunction with focus on classical risk factors, oxidative and inflammatory stress, metabolic adaptations, bone marrow derived progenitor cells, and blood microparticles.

This research knowledge will be instrumental for risk stratification and clinical management aimed to improve endothelial function by limiting damage and reinforcing regenerative mechanisms in obese adolescents.