Depression is a known risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD), and this comorbidity contributes significantly to the morbidity and mortality of women. The menopausal transition or perimenopause is a period of vulnerability for both depression and CVD, making it a key time to study this critical public health issue. This research will preliminarily explore whether disruption in two novel stress pathways 1) the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) and autonomic nervous system (ANS) and their relationship may underlie the link between these illnesses. Findings will provide important insight into potential mechanisms by which depression during perimenopause may increase risk for CVD in midlife women, which will inform potential risk reduction and treatment strategies that can improve health outcomes in this population.
Age range
44 Years – 55 Years
Sex
FEMALE
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A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.
Salivary aldosterone (pg/mL) levels at rest (before the stress task).
Timeframe: Immediately prior to the stress task.
Change in salivary aldosterone (pg/mL) levels in response to the stress task.
Timeframe: Immediately prior to the stress task and at intervals of 0, 10, and 20 minutes after the stress task.
Plasma aldosterone (pg/mL) levels at rest (before the stress task).
Timeframe: Immediately prior to the stress task.
Change in plasma aldosterone (pg/mL) levels in response to the stress task.
Timeframe: Immediately prior to and at 0 minutes after the stress task.
Plasma angiotensin II (pg/mL) levels at rest (before the stress task).
Timeframe: Immediately prior to the stress task.
Change in plasma angiotensin II (pg/mL) levels in response to the stress task.
Timeframe: Immediately prior to and at 0 minutes after the stress task.
Plasma renin (pg/mL/hr) levels at rest (before the stress task).
Timeframe: Immediately prior to the stress task.
Change in plasma renin (pg/mL/hr) levels in response to the stress task
Timeframe: Immediately prior to and at 0 minutes after the stress task