Diaphragmatic Function and Respiratory Drive in OSA and COPD

Launched by NANJING MEDICAL UNIVERSITY · May 25, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying how well the diaphragm, the muscle that helps us breathe, works in people with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), a combination of both conditions (called overlap syndrome), and in healthy individuals. The researchers will use special imaging and electrical tests to look at the diaphragm's shape and function, and to see how it relates to breathing difficulties. By comparing these groups, the study hopes to better understand the differences in breathing problems and how severe they are in patients with these conditions.

To participate in this trial, individuals need to be between 18 and 80 years old. People diagnosed with OSA or COPD are welcome, as well as those who have both conditions. Healthy volunteers without any breathing or sleep issues can also join. Participants will need to agree to the study and be able to complete the assessments. However, those with severe heart or liver problems, certain muscle diseases, recent surgeries, or who are pregnant or breastfeeding cannot take part. If you join, you can expect to undergo tests that will help researchers gather important information about how these conditions affect breathing.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • 1. Patients aged between 18 and 80 years.
• • 2. For OSA Group: Diagnosed obstructive sleep apnea with AHI ≥ 5 events/hour based on overnight polysomnography.
• • 3. For COPD Group: Diagnosed chronic obstructive pulmonary disease based on GOLD guidelines.
• • 4. For Overlap Group: Diagnosed both OSA (AHI ≥ 5) and COPD.
• • 5. For Control Group: Healthy volunteers with no known respiratory diseases or sleep disorders.
• • 6. Ability and willingness to provide informed consent for participation in the study.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • 1. Severe cardiovascular diseases (e.g., unstable angina, heart failure NYHA III/IV).
• • 2. Severe hepatic or renal insufficiency.
• • 3. Neuromuscular diseases affecting respiratory muscles.
• • 4. Recent upper airway or thoracic surgery (within 3 months).
• • 5. Pregnancy or breastfeeding.
• • 6. Participants who cannot complete assessments due to cognitive impairment or poor cooperation.