In Protocol 1 we will infuse adenosine at a dose of 80 mcg/kg/min for 30 minutes while measuring plasma levels of adenosine at different time points, ranging from 30 minutes to 6 hours. Because activation of A2B receptors also mediates the release of inflammatory cytokines, including IL-6, samples will be taken to measure these and other inflammatory/angiogenic cytokines.
In a second protocol, we will administer adenosine intradermically via a microdialysis probe for 30 minutes while we measure the local effect on skin blood flow using laser Doppler techniques. One hour after the end of the infusion we will obtain a skin biopsy from the perfused area for measurement of mRNA for VEGF, IL-8, IL-6 and other cytokines. In addition, we foresee the possibility of further testing looking for and genetic association between angiogenesis and adenosine.
These are proof-of-concept pilot studies. We will study up to 12 subjects in each protocol but an interim analysis will be performed after 6 subjects are studied. This will help us determine if a trend is observed, to perform power calculations, and determine if more extensive studies are warranted.
