Effects of Lipemia and Metformin on Endothelial Function
Status:
Completed
Trial end date:
2016-12-01
Target enrollment:
Participant gender:
Summary
Eating a diet high in fat contributes to the development of atherosclerosis (hardening of the
arteries). Acute fat consumption increases levels of fat in the blood and temporarily reduces
the ability of blood vessel to dilate (open up to carry additional blood). A similar response
is observed during infusion of Intra-Lipid (a fat emulsion used for intravenous nutrition).
The present study is designed to help us understand the effects of a fat load on blood vessel
function. We will measure arterial dilation using non-invasive techniques before and at the
end of a 5-hour infusion of Intra-Lipid in healthy subjects. Subjects will then take the
approved drug metformin for two weeks and return for repeat studies of endothelial function
with Intra-Lipid infusion. We expect that metformin will help preserve the normal function of
blood vessels during a fat load. This study will help us understand how fat affects blood
vessels and therefore will advance our knowledge of the development of atherosclerosis and
potentially lead to improved methods to prevent and treat heart disease.