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A novel ionic current contributing to spasm of small blood vessels

Published: 27 August 2008

Eligibility: Persons aged 18 to 65 years

This study is exploring the behaviour of small blood vessels in people who suffer from Raynaud's phenomenon, a condition in which the small blood vessels of the hands and feet are exquisitely sensitive to cold.

Monash researchers have discovered a new membrane current that mediates prolonged contraction in the muscle cells of blood vessels and are now examining whether this is responsible for Raynaud's phenomenon.

We are seeking 15 volunteers who suffer from Raynaud's phenomenon and 15 normal subjects as controls. Volunteers will be asked to undergo a brief physical examination and to have a small biopsy from the buttock region taken under local anaesthetic in order to remove a small 'thumbnail size' of subcutaneous fat containing the blood vessels to be studied.

For further information please contact:
Dr Suzi Chen
Telephone: +61 3 9554 8022
Email: suzi.chen@med.monash.edu.au.