Identifying genes that cause obstructive sleep apnea and excessive sleepiness
Official title: Going from Genetic Associations to Identification of Causative Genes
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-10880339 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking for the specific genes that might cause obstructive sleep apnea and excessive sleepiness, so we can better understand these conditions and find new ways to help people who have them.
Quick facts
| Grant type | P01 program project |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $583,766 |
| NIH project number | 5P01HL160471-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10880339 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea or those experiencing excessive sleepiness.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without obstructive sleep apnea or excessive sleepiness may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to identify the specific genes responsible for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and excessive sleepiness by building on previous genetic association studies. The project utilizes advanced techniques such as ATAC-seq to analyze genetic data and understand how certain genes interact with cellular structures in relevant cell types. By combining cell-based and animal models, the research seeks to pinpoint causal genes that contribute to these conditions, which could lead to better understanding and treatment options for patients. The approach involves mapping genetic variants to their corresponding genes to clarify their roles in these sleep-related disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnosis and targeted therapies for patients suffering from obstructive sleep apnea and excessive sleepiness.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in identifying genetic factors associated with sleep disorders, making this approach promising for uncovering causal genes.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pack, Allan I — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Pack, Allan I
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.