How treating sleep apnea affects memory and Alzheimer's biomarkers in older adults

Effects of Successful OSA TreatmENT on Memory and AD BIomarkers in Older AduLts (ESSENTIAL)

NIH-funded research California Pacific Med Ctr Res Institute · NIH-10914983

This study is looking at how treating obstructive sleep apnea might help improve memory and lower the risk of Alzheimer's in older adults, and it’s for those who have sleep apnea and want to see if treatment can boost their brain health.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionCalifornia Pacific Med Ctr Res Institute NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Francisco, United States)
Project IDNIH-10914983 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of treating obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) on memory and biomarkers associated with Alzheimer's disease in older adults. The study aims to determine if effective OSA treatment can reduce the risk of developing cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's by analyzing changes in specific biological markers after treatment. Participants will undergo cognitive testing and biomarker assessments to evaluate the effects of positive airway pressure therapy on their cognitive health. The research addresses the challenges of treatment adherence and identifying the right patient population for effective intervention.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea who are cognitively normal or at risk for cognitive decline.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have obstructive sleep apnea or those with advanced Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing Alzheimer's disease in older adults by effectively treating sleep apnea.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in treating sleep apnea to potentially delay cognitive decline, indicating that this approach may be effective.

Where this research is happening

San Francisco, 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.
Conditions Alzheimer disease dementiaAlzheimer syndromeAlzheimer's Disease
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 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.