COMT on Aspirin Platelets Effects (CAPE)

This is a randomized double-blinded, placebo controlled study. This study is designed to detect the variation in platelet function based on COMT variation and how these platelets respond to cancerous cells. We expect to recruit 60 healthy participants with the intention of studying 45 participants to complete the protocol. Individuals aged 18 to 40 years will be eligible to participate in this study if they do not have history of fainting/problems related to blood draws, major chronic medical illnesses, regular or current treatment of Aspirin™. Examine the role of genetic variation in in catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) on platelet function in a randomized double-blinded placebo controlled clinical trial of daily Aspirin™ (81 mg) versus placebo over 10-14 days. Platelet function will be assessed with a platelet aggregometry and by fluorescence-activated cell sorting assessment of platelet adhesion molecule GPIIIb/IIIa and p-selectin.