Investigating neurodegeneration in patients with obstructive sleep apnea

Biological and Cognitive Marker of Neurodegeneration in Obstructive Sleep Apnea Patients

Observational Technische Universität Dresden · NCT06167369

This study is trying to see if people with newly diagnosed obstructive sleep apnea show signs of brain changes and thinking problems before and after starting their treatment.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment136 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorTechnische Universität Dresden Academic / other
Locations1 site (Dresden, Saxony)
Trial IDNCT06167369 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to explore biomarkers and cognitive markers related to neurodegeneration in patients newly diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea. Participants will be monitored during their prescribed positive airway pressure therapy, with assessments conducted before treatment and six months after. The study will compare neurobiological and neurocognitive parameters between patients who adhere to therapy and those who do not, to determine any significant differences. The findings could provide insights into the relationship between sleep apnea and neurodegenerative processes.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults over 18 years old who have been newly diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea and are clinically indicated for positive airway pressure therapy.

Not a fit: Patients with existing neurodegenerative diseases, recent strokes, or significant brain injuries may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance understanding of neurodegeneration in obstructive sleep apnea patients and improve treatment adherence.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of this study may be novel, similar studies have indicated a potential link between sleep apnea and neurodegenerative processes.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* newly diagnosed obstructive sleep apnea
* clinical indication for start of positive airwas pressure therapy
* Age older than 18 years

Exclusion Criteria:

* neurodegenerative disease
* Multiple sclerosis
* Stroke within last 3 months
* Brain injury within last 3 months
* MoCA \< 21 points
* higher degree chonic kidney disease (lower than 30 mL/min)
* regular use of sleep pills (e.g. Zopiclon, Mirtazapin, Daridorexant)

Where this trial is running

Dresden, Saxony

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 Sleep Apnea, ObstructiveSleep apneaNeurodegenerationNeurofilament light chainGlial fibrillary acidic proteinPositive airway pressure therapy
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.