Study of the Effects of Negative Emotions on Endothelial Function

Study aims and hypotheses are as follows: Primary Hypotheses: Compared to the neutral condition, the anger recall task will acutely induce endothelial dysfunction by impairing endothelium-dependent arterial vasodilation (Hypothesis 1a); increasing circulating levels of EC-derived microparticles (EMPs), a marker of EC injury (Hypothesis 1b); and reducing circulating levels of bone marrow-derived endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs), a marker of EC reparative capacity (Hypothesis 1c). Secondary Hypotheses: Compared to the neutral condition, the depressed mood and separately the anxiety recall tasks will acutely impair endothelium-dependent arterial vasodilation, increase circulating levels of EMPs, and reduce circulating levels of bone marrow-derived EPCs. There will be a relation of the level of self-reported anger, depressed mood, and anxiety with endothelial dysfunction.