Understanding the genetics behind severe sleep apnea and its related airway structures
Official title: Genetics of Extreme Phenotypes of OSA and Associated Upper Airway Anatomy
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-10880318 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how our genes and the shape of our airways can affect obstructive sleep apnea, so we can better understand the condition and help create more personalized treatments for people who have it.
Quick facts
| Grant type | P01 program project |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $490,642 |
| NIH project number | 5P01HL160471-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10880318 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea, particularly those with severe or extreme forms of the condition.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without a diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnea or those with mild forms of the condition may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the genetic factors that contribute to obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) by examining the anatomy of the upper airway and identifying extreme phenotypes of the condition. Using advanced imaging techniques like MRI and CT scans, researchers will analyze anatomical features that are known to increase the risk of OSA, such as the size of soft tissue structures and the shape of the craniofacial skeleton. The study aims to link these anatomical traits with genetic variations through genome-wide association studies, ultimately enhancing the understanding of how genetics influence the severity of OSA. Patients may benefit from improved risk assessment and personalized treatment strategies based on their genetic and anatomical profiles.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better identification and management of patients at risk for severe obstructive sleep apnea.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in using genetic and anatomical analyses to understand complex conditions like OSA, suggesting that this approach has potential for meaningful insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Schwab, Richard J. — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Schwab, Richard J.
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.