Using mild intermittent hypoxia to help manage blood pressure issues in people with spinal cord injuries
Official title: Mild Intermittent Hypoxia: A Prophylactic for Autonomic Dysfunction in Individuals with Spinal Cord Injuries
Funded at John D Dingell VA Medical Center · NIH-10938034 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how short periods of low oxygen might help people with spinal cord injuries above the 6th thoracic vertebrae manage their blood pressure and improve their overall health, especially when it comes to sleep problems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | John D Dingell VA Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Detroit, United States) |
| Project start | November 1, 2022 |
| Project end | October 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| NIH project number | 5IK2RX003847-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10938034 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with spinal cord injuries above the 6th thoracic vertebrae who experience autonomic dysfunction.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with spinal cord injuries below the 6th thoracic vertebrae or those without spinal cord injuries may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how mild intermittent hypoxia may serve as a preventive measure for autonomic dysfunction in individuals with spinal cord injuries, particularly those with injuries above the 6th thoracic vertebrae. The study focuses on understanding the relationship between blood pressure control and autonomic responses during various stimuli and positional changes. By exploring this approach, the research aims to identify effective strategies to improve adherence to existing treatments for sleep disordered breathing, which is prevalent in this population. The methodology includes monitoring blood pressure and autonomic responses to assess the efficacy of the intervention.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved blood pressure management and overall cardiovascular health for individuals with spinal cord injuries.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that interventions aimed at improving adherence to CPAP therapy can enhance cardiovascular outcomes, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
John D Dingell VA Medical Center
Detroit, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Panza, Gino S — John D Dingell VA Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Panza, Gino S
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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.