Investigating the link between obstructive sleep apnea and Alzheimer's disease
Is Obstructive Sleep Apnea Important in the Development of Alzheimer's Disease
This study is looking at how sleep apnea might be linked to Alzheimer's disease in older adults, and it aims to find out if oxygen therapy can help improve thinking skills for those affected.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10861744 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores how obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), a condition that disrupts breathing during sleep, may contribute to the development of Alzheimer's disease, particularly in older adults. The study aims to understand the mechanisms behind this connection, including the roles of oxidative stress and the accumulation of amyloid and tau proteins in the brain. By using innovative, minimally invasive methods, researchers will assess the pathophysiology of OSA and its impact on cognitive functions. The project will also evaluate the effectiveness of oxygen therapy in OSA patients who are at risk for Alzheimer's, with the goal of improving cognitive outcomes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults who have been diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea and are at risk for developing Alzheimer's disease.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have obstructive sleep apnea or those who are not at risk for Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for preventing or mitigating Alzheimer's disease in patients with obstructive sleep apnea.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has indicated a potential link between sleep disorders and cognitive decline, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
La Jolla, United States
- University of California, San Diego — La Jolla, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Malhotra, Atul — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Malhotra, Atul
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.