Effects of beta-blockers on stress-related inflammation and brain responses

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This clinical trial investigates how the beta-adrenergic receptor blocker propranolol influences neural and inflammatory responses to psychological stress. By examining the role of beta-adrenergic signaling, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms that link stress to cardiovascular disease through inflammation. Participants will undergo neuroimaging to assess changes in brain activity and inflammation levels when administered propranolol compared to a placebo. This approach combines pharmacological manipulation with advanced imaging techniques to provide causal evidence of the effects of stress on cardiovascular health.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* Ages 18-30 years
* Right-handed
* Fluent in English reading, writing, and speaking at least at a 10th grade level
* Body mass index (BMI) less than or equal to 35 kg/m\^2

Exclusion Criteria:

Assessed as screening, reassessed at Session I:

* Non-removeable metal devices/implants/objects in the body
* Severe claustrophobia (assessed by self-report)
* Currently pregnant
* Left-handed
* Body mass index (BMI) greater than 35 kg/m\^2
* History of fainting spells or any heart condition
* History of or present low resting heart rate (\< 60 BPM) and/or low blood pressure (systolic blood pressure \< 80mmHg)
* Self-reported physical illnesses: diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, high blood pressure, inflammatory bowel diseases, rheumatoid arthritis, asthma, autoimmune disease, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, lupus
* Any self-reported diagnosed mental illness
* Current use of prescription medications (except hormonal contraceptives)
* Current or recent regular nicotine/tobacco use (cigarettes, e-cigarettes, vape, chewing tobacco, nicotine gum)
* Current regular (daily or almost daily) recreational drug use = 4 or more times per week

Instructed against during Session I, reassessed at Session II:

* Received any vaccine within the past two weeks
* Severe sleep disturbance (3-4 hours of sleep loss) the night before Session II
* Vigorous physical activity on the day of Session II
* Acute illness or allergy symptoms on the day of Session II
* Usage of over-the-counter medications on the day of Session II
* Usage of recreational drugs within 48 hours of Session II
* Usage of alcohol on the day of Session II

Where it's running

• Social Neuroscience and Health Laboratory
  Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Keely Muscatell, PhD — University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill
• Study coordinator: Jonathan Bunting, BS
• Email: jonb@unc.edu
• Phone: 9164957661

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.