Examining how sex and obesity affect blood vessel responses to low oxygen
Official title: Sex Disparities in Hypoxic Vasodilation and Impact of Obesity
Run by University of Missouri-Columbia · NCT05219799 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing how being male or female and having obesity affects how blood vessels respond to low oxygen levels, especially in people with sleep apnea, to find better treatments for heart-related issues.
Quick facts
| Phase | Early Phase 1 |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Ages | 18 Years to 45 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 72 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Missouri-Columbia Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Columbia, Missouri) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | March 14, 2023 |
| Main results expected | July 30, 2027 |
| Study ends | July 30, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | July 28, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT05219799 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are individuals with a BMI greater than 18 kg/m2 who do not have sleep apnea or related conditions.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have significant cardiovascular or other systemic diseases may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This project investigates the mechanisms behind sex differences in hypoxic vasodilation, particularly focusing on the role of the sympathetic nervous system and the impact of obesity. It aims to understand how women may respond differently to low oxygen levels compared to men, especially in the context of obesity, which is prevalent among patients with sleep apnea. By exploring these mechanisms, the study hopes to enhance the effectiveness of existing therapies and pave the way for new treatment options for cardiovascular diseases linked to sleep apnea.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved therapies for women with obesity-related cardiovascular issues.
How similar studies have gone: While studies on sex differences in cardiovascular responses exist, this specific focus on hypoxic vasodilation and obesity is relatively novel.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * BMI \>18 kg/m2 Exclusion Criteria: * Pregnancy, breastfeeding * Diagnosed sleep apnea or AHI \>10 events/hr * Current smoking/Nicotine use * Increased risk of bleeding, pro-coagulant disorders, clotting disorders, anticoagulation therapy * Nerve/neurologic disease * Cardiovascular, hepatic, renal, respiratory disease * Blood pressure ≥140/90 mmHg * Diabetes, Polycystic ovarian syndrome * Communication barriers * Prescription medications, Sensitivity to lidocaine
Where it's running
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University of Missouri
Columbia, Missouri, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Jacqueline Limberg, Ph.D. — University of Missouri-Columbia
- Study coordinator: Jacqueline K Limberg, Ph.D.
- Email: limbergj@missouri.edu
- Phone: 5738822544
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.