None listed
Conditions
Brief summary
This study aims to investigate the role of the neurotransmitter dopamine in the exercise-related enhancement of motor learning. The benefit of acute exercise on the retention of motor learning has been well-established, however the specific neural processes that underpin this effect remain unclear. By using Sulpiride to selectively block the action of specific dopamine receptors, we hope to better understand the role that dopamine may play in this process.
Interventions
Drug intervention: A single dose of 600mg of Sulpiride administered in one testing session via oral capsule.
Exercise intervention: A 20 minute bout of high-intensity exercise on a stationary bicycle. It will take place 1-2 hours after sulpiride administration to ensurure maximum dose saturation. Exercise will be targeted at between 50% and 90% of the participants' estimated maximum heart rate to ensure appropriate intensity. This will be delivered by (or under the supervision of) Eleanor Taylor
Drug intervention: A single dose of 600mg of Sulpiride administered in one testing session via oral capsule. Exercise intervention: A 20 minute bout of high-intensity exercise on a stationary bicycle. It will take place 1-2 hours after sulpiride administration to ensurure maximum dose saturation. Exercise will be targeted at between 50% and 90% of the participants' estimated maximum heart rate to ensure appropriate intensity. This will be delivered by (or under the supervision of) Eleanor Taylor, PhD candidate with 2 years experience administering similar exercise interventions in participants aged 18 to 75 years, or Dr James Coxon, the head of the Movement and Exercise Neuroscience laboratory at Monash University with >10 years experience in research focused on cognitive neuroscience and exercise. All exercise will be undertaken in the Neurophysiology Suite at Monash University. A wash out period of approximately 1 week will occur between drug and placebo sessions.
Sponsors
Monash University
Study design
Allocation
Randomised controlled trial
Intervention model
Crossover
Primary purpose
Treatment
Masking
Blinded (masking used) (Subject, Caregiver, Outcomes Assessor)
Eligibility
Sex/Gender
All
Age
18 Years to 40 Years
Healthy volunteers
Yes
Inclusion criteria
Healthy young adults, male and female. Females taking combined oral contraceptive pill - to control for any differing absorption rates that may be the result of fluctuating hormones.
Exclusion criteria
- Pregnant or breastfeeding - to prevent any potential risk of harm Sulpiride may cause for unborn or newborn children - History of psychiatric or neurological illness (including head injuries) - such conditions may confound results - Use of psychotropic medication or significant drug use - could confound results, as any possible alteration in brain function from previous drug use may interfere with substances administered in this study - Alcohol dependence (more than 24 units/week) - may influence dopamine receptor availability or sensitivity - Individuals with contraindications to Sulpiride
Outcome results
None listed