University of Minnesota
This is a cross-sectional study in which the investigators will determine the impact of premature/early menopause on MSNA, BP and baroreflex sensitivity in younger (≤49 yr old) and older (≥50 yr old) women. Specifically, aim one will determine mechanisms driving autonomic dysregulation of BP in premature and early menopausal women and aim two will determine mechanisms driving autonomic dysregulation of BP in older menopausal women. The study design outlined below will permit testing of aim one and aim two.
Aim One: Determine mechanisms driving autonomic dysregulation of blood pressure (BP) in premature and early menopausal women. Because sympathetic activity and baroreflex function are important contributors for autonomic support of BP regulation, these two mechanisms will be assessed in premature and early menopausal women who are ≤49 yr old. To specifically identify the influence of menopause, these women will be compared to age-matched premenopausal women. The primary hypothesis is that there is greater resting sympathetic activity and blunted baroreflex function in premature and early menopa…
Inclusion Criteria: * Aged 35-49 or 50-70 years of age who experienced premature (\<40) or early (≤45) menopause * Premenopausal 35-49 years of age * Typical-age menopause (i.e., after 45 years of age), who are between 50-70 years old * Menopause will be confirmed by subject report of amenorrhea for 12 months and serum FSH of \>30 mIU/mL Exclusion Criteria: * Current nicotine/tobacco use within the past six months * Are diabetic or asthmatic * Have diagnosed significant carotid stenosis * Have a history of significant autonomic dysfunction, heart disease, respiratory disease or a severe neu…
Microneurography is a direct measurement of electrical activity of peripheral sympathetic nerves
Two arms of the baroreflex that will be tested in this study are sympathetic and cardiovagal. Static baroreflex is tested during baseline resting conditions and dynamic baroreflex is tested during Valsalva maneuvers.
Cold Pressor Test (CPT) and Upper extremity fatiguing contraction with post exercise circulatory occlusion (PECO) will be performed
Serum FSH, estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone will be measured
Arctuva estimate
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