Study of Brain Blood Vessel Responses to Blood Flow Changes in Adults Aged 55 to 69

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying how blood flow in the brain changes with age, focusing on adults aged 55 to 69. The study aims to understand why some people experience faster declines in brain blood flow, which can increase the risk of cognitive problems. This research addresses a lack of human studies on how blood flow is controlled in the brain during changes in body position and breathing conditions. Participants will undergo magnetic resonance imaging MRI scans while performing tasks that simulate changes in posture and breathing increased levels of carbon dioxide. The study includes administration of a drug called prazosin or a placebo, with the dose adjusted for body weight. These procedures will help measure how the brains blood vessels respond to these challenges. During the study, participants will attend two visits, each lasting up to 240 minutes, where blood flow and blood velocity changes will be recorded. Researchers will monitor cerebrovascular responses using MRI, track participants adherence, and assess safety. The trial is sponsored by the University of Wisconsin, Madison, and healthy volunteers between 55 and 69 years old with specific health criteria may join. The study is planned to end in January 2027.

Brain Blood Vessel Responses to Changes in Blood Flow