Investigating how to improve breathing during sleep in patients with obstructive sleep apnea

Project 1

NIH-funded research Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center · NIH-10897851

This study is looking at ways to help people with obstructive sleep apnea breathe better during sleep by using special techniques to activate certain brain cells, which could lead to fewer interruptions in their sleep and better overall health.

Quick facts

Grant typeP01 program project
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-10897851 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), a condition where airway obstruction leads to disrupted sleep and cognitive impairment. The study aims to enhance brain circuits that help keep the airway open and reduce episodes of arousal that interrupt sleep. By using advanced techniques like optogenetics to activate specific neurons, researchers will measure changes in breathing patterns and muscle activity related to airway function. The goal is to find a way to improve ventilation and reduce the negative impacts of OSA on health.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea who experience significant sleep disruption and cognitive issues.

Not a fit: Patients without obstructive sleep apnea or those whose sleep disturbances are caused by other conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that significantly improve sleep quality and cognitive function for patients with obstructive sleep apnea.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using optogenetic techniques to manipulate neural circuits, suggesting potential success for this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Boston, 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 2026-06-13 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.