Menopause Related Influences on Leukocyte Distribution, Monocyte Function and Platelet Reactivity
This study is investigating why women's risk of heart disease changes after menopause. Before menopause, women generally have fewer heart problems than men, but this often reverses afterwards. Researchers believe female hormones, like oestrogen, may protect the heart and blood vessels. This research aims to understand how menopause-related changes in hormone levels affect important blood cells, specifically white blood cells (leukocytes) and platelets. These cells are key players in heart and blood vessel health. The study will also look at how hormone replacement therapy might influence these processes. By studying blood samples from both men and women of different ages, the goal is to uncover the underlying reasons for these sex-specific differences in heart health.
At a glance
What is this study about?
You might know that men and women can experience heart and blood vessel problems differently. Before menopause, women often have a lower risk of these issues compared to men. However, after menopause, this protection often lessens, and heart problems can become more common for women. Doctors believe this difference might be linked to hormones, especially oestrogen, which seems to help protect blood vessels before menopause.
This study wants to learn more about how changes during and after menopause affect certain blood cells. Specifically, it's looking at white blood cells (called leukocytes) and tiny cells called platelets. Both of these play a big role in how our blood clots and how our blood vessels stay healthy or become damaged. We don't fully understand how the shift in hormones during menopause changes these cells, or how hormone replacement therapy might affect them. This research aims to fill those gaps.
To do this, the study will collect blood samples from women and men of different ages. They will carefully examine the blood to see how the white blood cells and platelets are working. They'll also measure hormone levels. By comparing these findings across different groups, researchers hope to get a clearer picture of how menopause, hormones, and blood cells all link together to influence heart and blood vessel health. This knowledge could help us better understand and prevent heart problems in women.
Key takeaways
- This study explores why heart disease risk changes for women after menopause.
- It focuses on how hormones affect important blood cells (white blood cells and platelets).
- Researchers will study blood samples from both men and women.
- The findings could help improve our understanding and prevention of heart problems.
- Participation involves giving blood samples and sharing some health information.
- This is an observational study, so you won't be given new treatments.
Who may be eligible?
To join this study, you need to be at least 18 years old. People who are currently being treated in the heart, lung, and blood vessel department of the hospital are invited to take part, whether they are male or female.
It's important that you can understand the study information and follow the instructions given by the study team. You'll also need to provide your written permission, known as informed consent, to participate.
However, you won't be able to join if you are under 18 years old, if you can't give written consent, or if you have certain bleeding or clotting disorders. The study team will check all these points with you.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you 18 years old or older?
- Are you currently a patient in a heart, lung, or blood vessel clinic?
- Can you clearly understand the study information and instructions?
- Are you able to give your written consent (permission) to take part?
- Do you have any existing bleeding or clotting conditions, as these would mean you can't join?
What does participation involve?
The study involves providing blood samples for analysis. You won't be asked to take any new medication as part of this study, nor will there be a specific treatment to follow. The research is observational, meaning the researchers are looking at existing health information and blood characteristics, rather than testing a specific intervention.
During your participation, the study team will collect standard patient information, such as general lab test results, and details about your health risks and lifestyle. This will be linked with your hormone and lipid levels measured from your blood samples.
While the exact number of visits isn't specified, it will involve providing blood samples. The total duration of your participation would mainly depend on the collection of these samples and associated data. There won't be specific follow-up appointments related to the study itself once your samples and information have been gathered.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- University-Hospital Düsseldorf Division of Cardiology, Pulmonary Disease and Vascular MedicineVerified postcodeDüsseldorf, Germany· Recruiting
Common questions
What is the main goal of this study?
The study aims to understand why women's heart health risk changes after menopause by looking at how hormones affect blood cells.
Who can take part in this study?
Adults aged 18 or over who are patients in the cardiology (heart) department and can give written permission are eligible.
Will I have to take any new medicine?
No, this study does not involve taking any new medications. It’s about understanding existing health and blood samples.
What does giving blood samples involve?
You will have blood drawn, similar to a routine blood test. This blood will then be carefully analysed to study your cells and hormone levels.
Will my personal data be kept private?
Yes, all your personal information and medical data will be kept confidential and handled according to strict privacy rules.
How to find out more
Lisa Dannenberg, MD
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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