Effects of female hormones on spinal cord function

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 project aims to investigate how fluctuations in estradiol levels affect spinal cord neuroplasticity in healthy young females. The study will assess spinal circuit excitability through sensory and motor priming techniques, utilizing repetitive peripheral nerve electrical stimulation. It will involve both male and female participants to compare the effects of hormonal variations on spinal motor circuits. The research seeks to enhance understanding of the role of female sex hormones in spinal cord function.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

FEMALES

Inclusion Criteria:

* Ages 18-39 years
* Eumenorrheic (regular monthly cycles of 24-35 days)
* Moderately active (less than 7 hours of vigorous physical activity per week)
* History of pregnancy is allowed if patient is in post-lactation phase

Exclusion Criteria:

* History of musculoskeletal or orthopedic injury of the spine, hip, knee, ankle or foot
* History of neurological injury of the peripheral or central nervous system
* Current smoker
* History of disordered eating
* History of stress fracture in the lower limb
* History of a connective tissue disorder (Marfan's syndrome, Ehlers-Danlos disease)
* Pacemaker, metal implants in the head and spine region
* Pregnancy
* On a hormonal contraceptive regimen (oral, transdermal or vaginal)
* History of menstrual dysfunction (primary or secondary amenorrhea, oligomenorrhea, anovulatory cycles, polycystic ovarian disease)
* Started or stopped taking oral contraceptives within the previous 6 months
* Exercise vigorously more than 7 hours per week or currently participating in competitive level sports.

MALES

Inclusion Criteria:

* Ages 18-39
* Moderately active (less than 7 hours of vigorous physical activity per week)

Exclusion Criteria:

* History of musculoskeletal or orthopedic injury of the spine, hip, knee, ankle or foot
* History of neurological injury of the peripheral or central nervous system
* Current smoker
* History of disordered eating
* History of stress fracture in the lower limb
* History of a connective tissue disorder (Marfan's syndrome, Ehlers-Danlos disease)
* Pacemaker, metal implants in the head and spine region

Where it's running

• University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center
  Dallas, Texas, United States Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Yasin Dhaher, Ph.D. — University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center
• Study coordinator: Yu-Chen Chung, PT, Ph.D.
• Email: yu-chen.chung@utsouthwestern.edu
• Phone: 214-648-8838

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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.