Deciphering Preserved Autonomic Function After Multiple Sclerosis

Launched by MAYO CLINIC · May 30, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying how multiple sclerosis (MS) affects the autonomic nervous system, which controls important bodily functions like blood pressure, blood flow to the skin, and bladder health. Researchers want to understand the differences in how well this system works in people with MS compared to healthy individuals. By conducting lab tests, they will look at how the body responds to various situations, particularly focusing on blood pressure regulation. The goal is to identify any problems in the autonomic functions of those with MS and see how these issues might relate to other complications they may experience.

To participate in this study, you need to be between 18 and 50 years old and have a confirmed diagnosis of MS or be a healthy control without any medical conditions that could affect your participation. Participants will undergo various tests in a lab setting, where researchers will monitor how the body manages autonomic responses. This research aims to provide valuable insights that could help doctors better understand and manage complications related to the autonomic nervous system in people with MS. If you're interested in learning more about the trial or participating, please reach out to the study team for further details.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • 18-50 years old
• • clinically confirmed diagnosis of multiple sclerosis -OR- uninjured control
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • symptoms of cardiovascular (including, but not limited to: hypertension, stroke, chest pain, etc.), respiratory, peripheral neurological or autonomic disease (particularly diabetes mellitus requiring treatment)
• • women who are pregnant or lactating
• • having a body mass index (BMI) ≥ 35 kg/m2
• • taking or being administered a medication known to potentially have adverse interactions with phenylephrine
• • in the judgement of the principal investigator or clinical collaborator, any illness or condition that will interfere with the patient's ability to comply with the protocol, compromise patient safety, or interfere with the interpretation of the study results