Dilated Cardiomyopathy Clinical Trials 2026 — Find Recruiting Studies

About Dilated Cardiomyopathy

Dilated Cardiomyopathy is characterised by dilation and impaired contractile function of the left or both ventricles, leading to heart failure, arrhythmia, and thromboembolic complications, and is the most common indication for cardiac transplantation. Genetic causes account for approximately 30–50% of cases, with pathogenic variants in TTN (titin) being the most frequent, followed by LMNA, MYH7, and SCN5A among many other genes. LMNA-related DCM carries a particularly severe prognosis due to its association with early and malignant arrhythmias and progressive conduction disease.

Common Clinical Features

Progressive breathlessness on exertion and at rest Peripheral oedema and fluid retention Fatigue and reduced exercise capacity Left ventricular ejection fraction below 45% on echocardiography Ventricular arrhythmias and palpitations Atrioventricular conduction block (particularly in LMNA-DCM) Thromboembolic events including stroke Cardiomegaly on chest radiograph

Clinical Trial Eligibility Tips

What to know before applying to Dilated Cardiomyopathy trials.

Genetic testing identifying the causative gene (particularly LMNA) affects eligibility for gene-specific trials and risk stratification protocols; obtain panel results if available.

Ejection fraction thresholds (e.g., LVEF below 35–45%) are standard inclusion criteria; ensure echocardiography or cardiac MRI has been performed within six months of screening.

Stable optimised medical therapy (beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors/ARBs, SGLT2 inhibitors) is typically required before trial enrolment; document current medications carefully.