Investigating how obstructive sleep apnea affects insulin resistance due to low oxygen levels.

Tissue-Specific Insulin Resistance in Obstructive Sleep Apnea: Role of Hypoxia

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO · NIH-10693797

This study is looking at how obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) affects insulin resistance, especially in people who have low oxygen levels while they sleep, to see how this might lead to issues like type 2 diabetes and fatty liver disease. If you have OSA, this research could help us understand how your sleep condition impacts your overall health and insulin sensitivity.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10693797 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the relationship between obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and insulin resistance, particularly in patients experiencing low oxygen levels during sleep. The study aims to explore how OSA contributes to conditions like type 2 diabetes and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) by examining the effects of hypoxia on insulin sensitivity in various tissues, including the liver and adipose tissue. By comparing patients with OSA who experience hypoxia to those who do not, the research seeks to identify specific mechanisms that worsen insulin resistance. Participants may undergo assessments related to their sleep patterns, metabolic health, and tissue responses to better understand these interactions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea, particularly those experiencing episodes of low oxygen levels during sleep.

Not a fit: Patients without obstructive sleep apnea or those who do not experience hypoxia during sleep may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for patients with obstructive sleep apnea, potentially reducing their risk of developing diabetes and liver disease.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have indicated a connection between sleep apnea and insulin resistance, suggesting that this research builds on established findings rather than exploring an entirely novel approach.

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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: non-alcohol fatty liver disease, non-alcoholic liver disease, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.