Role of Prostaglandins in the Regulation of Brain Blood Flow

This study will use magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to examine the role of prostaglandins-a type of fatty acid with hormone-like actions-in the regulation of brain blood flow. The results will provide information on how to better use this technique to study brain function, which, in turn, may lead to a better understanding of certain illnesses and more effective treatments.

Healthy normal volunteers 18 years of age and older may be eligible for this study. Participants will fill out a health questionnaire and undergo a history, physical examination and MRI studies. MRI is a diagnostic tool that uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves instead of X-rays to show structural and chemical changes in tissues. During the scanning, the subject lies on a table in a narrow cylinder containing a magnetic field. An intercom system allows the subject to speak with the staff member performing the study at all times during the procedure. Four separate studies will be done-two carbon dioxide inhalation studies and two functional activation studies-as follows:

Carbon dioxide inhalation (indomethacin): This study is done in two parts. In both parts, an MRI brain scan is done. During the scan, the subject inhales an air mixture containing 6% carbon dioxide through a facemask or mouthpiece. Blood pressure and heart rate are monitored during inhalation of the mixture. For the second part of the study, indomethacin-a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug-is injected through a catheter (thin flexible tube) in an arm vein. Indomethacin inhibits prostaglandin production. Total scan time averages between 45 and 90 minutes, with a maximum of 2 hours.

Carbon dioxide inhalation (rofecoxib and celecoxib): This study is identical to the one above, except either rofecoxib or celecoxib is given instead of indomethacin. Both of these drugs are also non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs that inhibit prostaglandin production. Unlike indomethacin, rofecoxib and celecoxib are given orally instead of through a vein, so, to allow time for the drug to be absorbed, the second scan is delayed for 2 hours.

Functional activation (indomethacin): This study is done in two parts. In both parts, a MRI brain scan is done. During the study, the subject performs a simple motor task, such as finger tapping. For the second part of the study, indomethacin is injected through a catheter in an arm vein.

Functional activation (rofecoxib and celecoxib): This study is identical to the indomethacin functional activation study, except either rofecoxib or celecoxib is given instead of indomethacin. Because they are given orally instead of through a vein, the second scan is delayed 2 hours to allow time for the drug to be absorbed.