Neuroimmune Response to Lipopolysaccharide

Imaging the Neuroimmune Response to Lipopolysaccharide

In this study, healthy adult volunteers will undergo two positron emission tomography (PET) scans using the radiotracer [11C]PBR28 which binds to the 18kDa translocator protein (TSPO). Approximately 3 hours prior to the second [11C]PBR28 PET scan, lipopolysaccharide (LPS; endotoxin) will be administered to evoke a robust neuroimmune response. Subjects will also undergo behavioral and cognitive testing. Vital signs, subjective response, and peripheral cytokine levels will be assayed periodically throughout the experimental session.

Specific aims: Quantify the magnitude of neuroimmune response after a classical immune stimulus.

Secondary aims: Quantify changes in cognitive function after a classical immune stimulus.

Hypothesis: Individuals will exhibit a robust whole-brain neuroimmune response and impaired cognitive function after LPS.

Inclusion Criteria:

1) Medically-healthy male and female subjects able to read/write English

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Subjects cannot meet DSM criteria for substance use disorder
2. Any psychiatric symptoms that could put the subject at risk by participating in the study including but not limited to suicidal or homicidal ideation, or suicide attempt within the last year
3. Pregnancy or breastfeeding;
4. Any current medical illness that could put the subjects at risk during the PET scan, or interfere with the PET or immunologic measures
5. Significant hepatocellular injury (as evidenced by AST or ALT levels greater than 5 times normal or a history of cirrhosis) will be exclusionary in order to reduce the risks associated with alcohol consumption
6. Subjects taking corticosteroids or other immunosuppressant drugs
7. Subjects with disorders affecting the brain, including but not limited to multiple sclerosis, history of stroke, brain tumors, intracranial bleeding, infection, or abscess.