How sleep disorders affect chronic pain development

Chronic Intermittent Hypoxia and Hyperalgesic Priming

NIH-funded research University of Texas Hlth Science Center · NIH-11052528

This study is looking at how sleep problems like obstructive sleep apnea might lead to long-lasting pain, and it’s for anyone who struggles with sleep issues and chronic pain, as it hopes to find new ways to help them feel better.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Texas Hlth Science Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Antonio, United States)
Project IDNIH-11052528 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the link between sleep disorders, particularly obstructive sleep apnea, and the development of chronic pain. It aims to understand how intermittent hypoxia, a condition caused by disrupted breathing during sleep, may lead to increased pain sensitivity through changes in immune cell behavior. By using a rodent model that simulates these sleep conditions, the study seeks to uncover the biological mechanisms involved in the transition from acute to chronic pain. The ultimate goal is to find ways to alleviate persistent pain in individuals suffering from sleep disorders.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from sleep disorders, particularly those experiencing chronic pain.

Not a fit: Patients without sleep disorders or those not experiencing chronic pain may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for chronic pain in patients with sleep disorders.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the relationship between sleep disorders and pain, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

San Antonio, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.