Effects of Urocortins on Forearm Arterial Blood Flow in Healthy Volunteers (Protocol 3)
Status:
Completed
Trial end date:
2012-01-01
Target enrollment:
Participant gender:
Summary
Impairment of the heart's pumping capacity (heart failure) remains a major clinical problem
with a poor prognosis and the search for novel treatments remains an important area of
research.
Urocortins are proteins that appear to increase blood flow and heart pumping activity. There
has been particular interest in the role of Urocortins 2 & 3 (subtypes of Urocortins) in
heart failure.
In this study, we will examine the effects and mechanisms of Urocortins 2 & 3 on forearm
blood flow and release of natural blood clot dissolving factors in the forearm circulation of
healthy volunteers. In particular, we look at the endothelial mechanisms of vasodilatation of
Urocortin 2 and 3.
In this study, we will look at the role of the lining of the blood vessel (endothelium) in
response to urocortin types 2 and 3. We hypothesise that urocortins 2 & 3 act via the
endothelium to cause dilatation of the blood vessels and release of tissue-plasminogen
activating factor (blood clot dissolving factor). We also hypothesise that urocortins have a
role in maintaining the normal baseline level of blood flow in forearm arteries. In addition
to the above, we will also look at the effect of temporarily blocking the effect of
urocortins, using a specially designed blocker drug (Astressin 2B).
Utilising the well-established technique of 'forearm venous occlusion plethysmography', we
will be able to focus on the local effects of urocortins on arterial blood flow in forearm
vessels, without affecting this system in the body as a whole.
Phase:
N/A
Details
Lead Sponsor:
University of Edinburgh
Collaborator:
NHS Lothian
Treatments:
Aspirin Fluconazole Neurokinin A Nitric Oxide Substance P