An opportunity is available to be involved the OxyMOTION Study, taking place at the University Hospital Basel.
What is the OxyMOTION Study?
For the first time, research has shown that people with AVP deficiency can experience a ‘clinically relevant’ deficiency in oxytocin. In this context, ‘clinically relevant’ means significant enough to cause symptoms that warrant treatment.
This study aims to look at whether oxytocin treatment can improve emotional recognition and stress response for these people. It will look at the effects of oxytocin on someone’s ability to recognise emotions and response to stressful situations.
What is oxytocin?
Oxytocin is a hormone produced in the brain that has positive impacts on social bonding and feelings of love, trust and relaxation. It is made in the brain in response to vasopressin. Therefore, people with AVP deficiency (who do not produce vasopressin) may experience deficiencies in oxytocin, even if they are treated with desmopressin.
Many people with AVP deficiency report symptoms of anxiety, low mood, social withdrawal and reduced quality of life, which may result from oxytocin deficiency.
What does this study involve?
This study will last around 9 weeks. If you choose to take part in this study, it will involve:
- 1 x initial screening visit to see if you are suitable to take part (lasting 2-3 hours)
- 4 x study visits (each lasting 2-3 hours)
- Undergo treatment with either an oxytocin nasal spray or a placebo nasal spray
The study visits will be split into two parts – part A and part B
Part A – On the 2nd and 3rd study visits, you will be tested on your emotion recognition, using computer tests
Part B – On the 1st and 4th study visits, you will be tested on your reaction to a stressful situation using questionnaires and blood samples*
*Participation in part B is only possible if your cortisol axis is intact. The study organisers will be happy to check if this applies to you.
You will also need to travel to Switzerland twice, with all travel and accommodation costs fully covered.
Who can take part?
In order to take part in this study you must:
- Be aged 18 or over
- Have a confirmed diagnosis of AVP deficiency
- Have been stable on desmopressin therapy for 3 months or longer
- Have strong English or German language skills
- If you have any other pituitary hormone deficiencies, these need to be stable and well-managed
People without pituitary conditions are also able to take part in the study as healthy controls. To do so, you must be 18 or over and have no pre-existing medical conditions and not be taking any medication (not including hormonal birth control).
How can I get involved?
If you are interested in taking part, please contact Dr Svenja Leibnitz by emailing [email protected], or calling 0613 284 496