Study of Blood Vessel Cell Function After Spinal Cord Injury and Its Role in Heart and Stroke Risks

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating how the single-cell lining of blood vessels, called endothelial cells, may function abnormally after a spinal cord injury SCI. The study focuses on measuring how well blood vessels can widen vasodilate and how blood flow changes in adults with SCI compared to those without. Understanding these changes could help address the higher risk of heart attacks and strokes among people with SCI. The study involves two groups adults over 18 with chronic motor complete paraplegia injury at the T2 level or below that occurred more than a year ago, and adults over 18 who have never had spinal cord injuries. Participants will undergo a procedure where small doses of drugs are infused into an artery to test blood vessel function, including the use of acetylcholine, isoproterenol, and sodium nitroprusside. Vitamin C is also infused to assess its effect on oxidative stress and blood vessel health. Blood samples will be collected to measure biomarkers related to vascular function. Participants will be monitored through arterial infusions and blood tests to evaluate both endothelium-dependent and independent vasodilation, as well as levels and effects of endothelial cell-derived microvesicles. These measurements will be taken at baseline and after drug infusions. The study will assess vascular function and oxidative stress to better understand cardiovascular risks in SCI. The total duration and follow-up details are not specified.

Endothelial Dysfunction After SCI