Sleep research led to a new sleep apnea drug
3 hours ago
- #sleep apnea research
- #neuroscience discoveries
- #clinical trial breakthrough
- A University of Toronto professor's research has led to breakthrough discoveries in sleep apnea, identifying key drivers of the condition.
- The research identified two pathways: loss of noradrenaline 'go' signal and muscarinic receptor 'stop' signal, which block tongue movement during sleep.
- This foundational work enabled the development of AD109, a new oral medication targeting both pathways, which showed positive results in a phase 3 clinical trial.
- Sleep apnea affects over one in four Canadians and 1.6 billion adults globally, but less than 10% are diagnosed, increasing risks of heart disease and cognitive impairment.
- Current CPAP therapy is effective but often uncomfortable, making AD109 a potential valuable alternative if approved.