Pulsatile Feedback Actions of Cortisol on ACTH Release in Men and Women: Signaling via Glucocorticoid and Mineralocorticoid Receptor-Dependent Mechanisms

Location:

Rochester, MN.

Trial status:

Open for Enrollment

Why is this study being done?

This research study is designed to help us better understand how the body controls the secretion of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) in young men and women.

ACTH is a hormone (a chemical that circulates in the blood and influences a person's health) that is made in and released by the pituitary gland in the brain. ACTH increases the production of cortisol by the adrenal gland.

Cortisol is a hormone which allows the body to respond to stress. Thus, ACTH and cortisol are called stress hormones.

Their levels differ in men and women, but doctors do not know why. This study will test how testosterone (male sex hormone) in men and estrogen (female sex hormone) in women control the stress hormones.

This question is important, because sex hormones increase in puberty and decrease with aging.

Who is eligible to participate?

The plan is to have 84 people (42 men and 42 women) take part in this study at Mayo Clinic.  

What is involved?

There is a total of nine visits. There will be three initial outpatient visits, four overnight admissions in the Clinical Research Unit (CRU), and two outpatient visits after you complete your last (4th) CRU visit

How long is the study?

You can be in the study up to 2 months.

Last updated:

12/5/2012

IRB Number:

09-007226