Identifying blood biomarkers for obstructive sleep apnea using microRNAs

MicroRNAs as Biomarkers for Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Observational University of Pennsylvania · NCT06189755

This study is testing if certain blood markers can help identify obstructive sleep apnea in people by looking at tiny molecules called microRNAs.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment500 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 75 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Pennsylvania Academic / other
Locations3 sites (Columbus, Ohio and 2 other locations)
Trial IDNCT06189755 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to develop and validate blood biomarkers specific to obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) by analyzing microRNAs. The research will compare microRNA profiles between individuals with moderate to severe OSA and healthy controls matched for age, sex, and body mass index. The study will utilize sequencing techniques and quantitative PCR to assess microRNA expression, which may help improve case identification, monitor therapy efficacy, and predict blood pressure responses to treatment. By establishing these biomarkers, the study seeks to enhance the management of OSA patients.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include adults aged 18-75 with moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea who are willing to accept positive airway pressure therapy.

Not a fit: Patients currently using positive airway pressure therapy or with certain medical conditions, such as chronic kidney disease requiring dialysis, may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved identification and management of obstructive sleep apnea through the use of specific blood biomarkers.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have suggested differences in microRNA expression between OSA cases and controls, indicating potential success for this novel approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria for Cases:

* age 18-75 years
* moderate-severe OSA (defined as AHI ≥15 events/hour)
* willing to accept PAP therapy

Inclusion Criteria for Controls:

* age 18-75 years
* no OSA (defined as AHI \<5 events/hour)

Exclusion Criteria for Cases:

* current use of PAP or other OSA treatments
* home oxygen therapy
* recent changes (within 3 months) to BP medications among those who are on these medications
* presence of Cheyne-Stokes Respiration (CSR) in sleep study
* predominantly central sleep apnea (AHI≥15 events/hour, with \>50% central events)
* pregnancy
* clinical history of chronic kidney disease (Stage 5) requiring dialysis, or renal transplant
* organ transplantation
* self-reported sleep duration less than 5 hours per night on weeknights (work nights)
* current night shift work

Exclusion Criteria for Controls:

* home oxygen therapy
* pregnancy
* clinical history of chronic kidney disease (Stage 5) requiring dialysis, or renal transplant
* organ transplantation
* self-reported sleep duration less than 5 hours per night on weeknights (work nights)
* current night shift work

Where this trial is running

Columbus, Ohio and 2 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Obstructive Sleep ApneaSleep ApneaBiomarkersBlood pressure
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.