The hypothesis is that oral supplementation of L-carnosine will inhibit PHDs, increase
HIF1-translocation and angiogenesis and thus improve the functioning of lower extremities in
PAD patients.
Primary Aim:
1. Compare the effect of carnosine and placebo supplementation on the 6MWT in PAD patients
with and without claudication.
Secondary Aim:
1. Determine whether carnosine supplementation improves the pain-free treadmill walking
ability of the subjects supplemented with carnosine compared to placebo.
2. Compare the levels of carnosine, VEGF, HIF-1α, and PHDs activity in the skeletal muscle
before and after placebo and carnosine supplementation.
3. Compare the levels of EPCs (CD34+/CD133+), inflammatory markers (serum amyloid A, hsCRP)
and thrombotic markers (fibrinogen, homocysteine) as cardiovascular risk markers in
these subjects.
4. Explore the effects of race and gender on VEG, carnosine, and HIF-1α levels in both
groups.