Aging Study

Vasodilatory Function in Young and Postmenopausal Women

 

Purpose:

The purpose of this study is to learn more about blood vessel function and the ability of the blood vessels to dilate in women. With advancing age, blood vessel function declines and cardiovascular disease risk increases. There are several substances made by the body that control blood vessel function. We previously have shown one substance, endothelin-1 (ET-1), to play an important role in contributing to decreased blood vessel function in postmenopausal women. The aims of this study are to examine how ET-1 interacts with other substances (angiotensin II and norepinephrine) that can reduce the ability of the blood vessel to dilate. To do this we will use a technique called microdialysis

 

Inclusion:

  • You are a healthy young woman or man between 18-30 years old
  • You are a healthy postmenopausal woman or man between  50-70 years old

 

 

 

Exclusion:

  • If you use Depo-Provera, an IUD, or an extended birth control pill cycle like Seasonale or Seasonique
  • If you take birth control pills and do not have a ‘placebo week’
  • History of heart disease
  • History of blood clots, deep vein thrombosis, or other chronic disease
  • Use tobacco products
  • Have a BMI greater than 30 [calculate BMI here]
  • Use hormone replacement therapy
  • Pregnant/planning on becoming pregnant/breast feeding

Your Participation:

Full participation in this study will require 3 visits. Each visit may last from one to five hours. The first visit will take place at the Nurse Managed Primary Care Center. The second and third visits will take place in our lab. Both of these facilities are located at 540 S. College Avenue (STAR Health Sciences Complex) in Newark, DE.

Your participation in this research study is entirely voluntary and you have the right to stop at any time.

 

Compensation:

You will receive compensation for full completion of the study. Compensation will be described during the consent process.