Research Study Opportunities

Volunteers needed for study of an agent that may treat decompression sickness.

Protocol: Plasma gelsolin to mitigate decompression-induced inflammation. 

Dr. Stephen R. Thom at the University of Maryland, Baltimore.

The study involves intravenous injection of either sterile salt water (placebo) or a manufactured form of a normal human protein, plasma gelsolin, that often decreases due to SCUBA diving. We are looking to recruit 36 adults who must be certified SCUBA divers. After a screening physical exam, blood and urine testing, and placement of an intravenous catheter, research subjects will receive an injection and then walk into the hyperbaric chamber at the University of Maryland. The chamber will be pressurized following accepted SCUBA diving parameters to the equivalent of 98 feet of sea water for 35 minutes and then decompressed over approximately 19 minutes. Following the exposure, a second injection will be given, blood samples obtained and monitoring for at least 2 hours by ultrasound to evaluate bubbles passing through the heart. Subjects should return at 24 hours and again 2 and 4 weeks later to provide blood samples. For participation in this study, individuals will receive a $400.00 gift card after the initial 24 hour study and a $100 gift card after the 4 week blood sample is obtained.

If interested, please call or write: Stephen R. Thom, M.D., Ph.D., sthom@som.umaryland.edu, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Bressler Hall, Room 4-013, Phone: 410-706-8294.