Investigating sleep problems in infants with a severe birth defect called myelomeningocele

Sleep-disordered breathing in infants with myelomeningocele

NIH-funded research University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-10754237

This study is looking at how sleep problems affect babies with myelomeningocele, a serious type of spina bifida, to see if better sleep can help their brain development and overall health.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Ann Arbor, United States)
Project IDNIH-10754237 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) in infants diagnosed with myelomeningocele, a severe form of spina bifida. The study aims to assess the prevalence and impact of SDB on cognitive outcomes in these children, as abnormal sleep patterns may contribute to long-term neurobehavioral issues. By examining factors such as spinal defects and brainstem abnormalities, the research seeks to identify potential interventions that could improve sleep quality and overall health. The approach includes systematic assessments and monitoring of sleep physiology in affected infants.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are infants diagnosed with myelomeningocele, particularly those experiencing sleep-disordered breathing.

Not a fit: Patients without myelomeningocele or those who do not exhibit sleep-disordered breathing may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved management of sleep disorders in infants with myelomeningocele, potentially enhancing their cognitive development and quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that addressing sleep-disordered breathing in children can lead to significant improvements in cognitive and behavioral outcomes, suggesting a promising avenue for this study.

Where this research is happening

Ann Arbor, 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 2026-06-10 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.