Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 18, 2026
07:49
A Pacing-Controlled Procedure for the Assessment of Heart Rate-Dependent Diastolic Functions in Murine Heart Failure Models
Published on: July 21, 2023
Effects of Exercise Mode and Intensity on Retinal Microvascular Structure and Function in Heart Failure Patients with
Lukas Streese1,2,3, Egbert Thomas Ritter1, Raphael Schoch1
1Department of Sport, Exercise and Health, Medical Faculty, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.
Journal of Vascular Research
|June 16, 2026
Summary
Both moderate-intensity continuous training (MCT) and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) improve retinal microvascular function in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) patients. These exercise interventions enhance arteriolar function and diameter, contributing to better vascular health.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Research
- Ophthalmology
- Exercise Physiology
Background:
- Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is associated with impaired microvascular endothelial function.
- Retinal microvasculature serves as a surrogate for systemic vascular health.
- Understanding the impact of exercise on HFpEF microvascular function is crucial for therapeutic strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of moderate-intensity continuous training (MCT) versus high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on retinal microvascular endothelial function in patients with HFpEF.
- To compare changes in retinal arteriolar and venular diameters and their responses to stimuli between exercise groups.
Main Methods:
- A randomized controlled trial involving 28 HFpEF patients allocated to either 12 weeks of MCT or HIIT.
- Assessment of retinal microvascular parameters including central retinal arteriolar and venular equivalents (CRAE, CRVE), arteriolar-to-venular ratio (AVR).
- Evaluation of dynamic arteriolar (aFID) and venular (vFID) flicker light-induced dilation response pre- and post-intervention.
Main Results:
- Both MCT and HIIT groups showed significant increases in AVR, indicating arteriolar widening.
- HIIT led to a significant increase in CRAE, while MCT showed a trend towards increased CRAE.
- MCT significantly improved arteriolar flicker light-induced dilation (aFID), whereas HIIT did not show significant changes in aFID or vFID in either group.
Conclusions:
- Both MCT and HIIT are effective therapeutic options for improving retinal microvascular health in patients with HFpEF.
- Exercise interventions can positively impact arteriolar function and diameter in this population.
- Further research may explore differential effects of exercise intensity on specific microvascular parameters.
Related Concept Videos
01:20Exercise and Cardiovascular Response
Exercise significantly impacts cardiovascular response, which is crucial for understanding patient health and designing effective treatment plans.
Light to moderate physical activity initiates a series of interconnected responses in the body. The heart rate modestly increases in anticipation of the workout, followed by widespread vasodilation as oxygen consumption by skeletal muscles increases. This results in decreased peripheral resistance, increased capillary blood flow, and accelerated...
Light to moderate physical activity initiates a series of interconnected responses in the body. The heart rate modestly increases in anticipation of the workout, followed by widespread vasodilation as oxygen consumption by skeletal muscles increases. This results in decreased peripheral resistance, increased capillary blood flow, and accelerated...
01:29Heart Failure II: Pathophysiology
Systolic Heart Failure and Compensatory MechanismsSystolic heart failure (also termed HFrEF, Heart Failure with Reduced Ejection Fraction) is the most prevalent type of heart filure. It results in a decreased volume of blood being pumped from the ventricle. The aortic arch and carotid sinuses have baroreceptors that detect reduced blood pressure, triggering the sympathetic nervous system (SNS) to release epinephrine and norepinephrine. Initially, this response aims to boost heart rate and...
01:17Exercise and Cardiac Output
Regular physical activity is essential for maintaining cardiovascular health, with aerobic exercises being particularly effective. According to the American Heart Association, 150 minutes of moderate to intense aerobic exercise per week is recommended for a healthy heart. Aerobic activities may include brisk walking, running, bicycling, cross-country skiing, and swimming, ideally performed three to five times per week.
Sustained exercise increases the muscles' oxygen demand, which can be met...
Sustained exercise increases the muscles' oxygen demand, which can be met...
01:30Heart Failure V: Medical Management
Medical Management of Acute Decompensated Heart Failure (ADHF)The primary goals of therapy for patients hospitalized with acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF) include:Relieving symptomsOptimizing volume statusSupporting oxygenation and ventilationMaintaining cardiac output (CO) and end-organ perfusionIdentifying and addressing the cause of ADHFPreventing complicationsProviding patient education on factors precipitating HF exacerbationPlanning for dischargeOngoing monitoring and assessment...
01:27Heart Failure I: Introduction
Heart failure refers to a clinical syndrome caused by structural or functional cardiac disorders that prevent the heart from pumping an adequate amount of blood to meet the body's metabolic needs. This condition often arises from myocardial infarction or ischemia, leading to decreased cardiac output, reduced tissue perfusion, impaired gas exchange, fluid volume imbalance, and decreased functional ability.Heart failure can result from disruptions in the mechanisms that regulate cardiac output...
01:17Pathophysiology of Heart Failure
Heart failure (HF) is a progressive syndrome involving ventricles that leads to inadequate cardiac output. It can be classified based on location and output or ejection fraction. Ejection fraction (EF) is an essential measurement in the diagnosis and surveillance of HF. Reduced EF corresponds to systolic heart failure (HFrEF). However, HF with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is becoming increasingly prevalent. Also known as diastolic HF, this form of HF is related to aging. The...