Sleep Apnea and Vascular Function

Overview

About this study

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is associated with endothelial dysfunction and the development of cardiovascular disease. It is unclear how OSA results in endothelial dysfunction, but given the association between OSA and obesity, adipose-derived hormones (adipokines) are likely to be involved. Leptin, an adipokine upregulated in patients with OSA, has been shown to be associated with deleterious effects on vascular function resulting in impaired endothelial function. This proposal is directed at investigating the molecular mechanisms of endothelial dysfunction in OSA patients. We hypothesize that endothelial dysfunction associated with OSA is a result of molecular alterations within endothelial cells. As a part of these studies we will look at NO signaling pathways in adipose tissue and microvessels from normal and OSA subjects.

Participation eligibility

Participant eligibility includes age, gender, type and stage of disease, and previous treatments or health concerns. Guidelines differ from study to study, and identify who can or cannot participate. There is no guarantee that every individual who qualifies and wants to participate in a trial will be enrolled. Contact the study team to discuss study eligibility and potential participation.

Inclusion Criteria:

  • Non OSA, and newly diagnosed OSA subjects
  • Naïve to CPAP treatment
  • Aged 20-55 years
  • With BMI less than or equal to 41 kg/m2, who are free of all chronic diseases including hypertension, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases

Exclusion Criteria:

  • Pregnancy.
  • Anemic (hemoglobin <13.5 g/dL for men and <12.0 g/dL for women.
  • Postmenopausal
  • Smoking
  • Use of chronic Medications (aspirin, beta agonist, anti-inflammatory drugs)

Participating Mayo Clinic locations

Study statuses change often. Please contact the study team for the most up-to-date information regarding possible participation.

Mayo Clinic Location Status Contact

Rochester, Minn.

Mayo Clinic principal investigator

Virend Somers, M.D., Ph.D.

Closed for enrollment

Contact information:

Sleep and Cardiovascular Clinical Research Unit

CPL@mayo.edu

More information

Publications

Publications are currently not available