Impact of maternal sleep apnea on fetal brain development
Mechanisms of Hypoxia-Mediated Disturbances in Cerebral Maturation in a Fetal Ovine Model of Maternal Sleep Apnea
['FUNDING_R01'] · OREGON HEALTH & SCIENCE UNIVERSITY · NIH-11004356
This study is looking at how low oxygen levels from sleep apnea in pregnant women might impact the development of their baby's brain, especially areas important for learning and memory, to help understand any potential risks for the baby's growth and brain function.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | OREGON HEALTH & SCIENCE UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (PORTLAND, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11004356 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates how episodes of low oxygen levels caused by maternal sleep apnea affect the development of the fetal brain, particularly focusing on the hippocampus, which is crucial for learning and memory. Using a novel model, the study will monitor fetal brain oxygen levels and assess how these conditions lead to cell death and inflammation in the brain. The researchers will also explore how these disruptions affect the maturation of important neural connections and the overall function of the brain during development.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are pregnant women experiencing sleep apnea, particularly in the third trimester.
Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or those without sleep apnea may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and interventions for cognitive and developmental issues in children born to mothers with sleep apnea.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific model used in this research is novel, previous studies have indicated that maternal health conditions can significantly impact fetal brain development.
Where this research is happening
PORTLAND, UNITED STATES
- OREGON HEALTH & SCIENCE UNIVERSITY — PORTLAND, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: BACK, STEPHEN ARTHUR — OREGON HEALTH & SCIENCE UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: BACK, STEPHEN ARTHUR
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 below.