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Circulating cell-derived microparticles in patients with minimally symptomatic obstructive sleep apnoea
The European Respiratory Journal
|December 3, 2008
Summary
Minimally symptomatic obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) is linked to elevated microparticle levels, indicating potential cardiovascular risks. These findings suggest increased risk even in less severe OSA cases.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Sleep Medicine
- Biomarkers
Background:
- Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) is associated with cardiovascular risk.
- Cell-derived microparticles are implicated in pro-atherogenic mechanisms.
- The impact of minimally symptomatic OSA on microparticle levels is unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate whether minimally symptomatic OSA elevates circulating microparticle levels.
- To compare microparticle levels in patients with minimally symptomatic OSA versus controls.
Main Methods:
- Flow cytometry was used to measure AnnexinV-positive, platelet-, leukocyte-, and endothelial cell-derived microparticles.
- Study included 57 patients with minimally symptomatic OSA and 15 matched controls.
Main Results:
- Patients with OSA showed significantly higher levels of AnnexinV-positive, platelet-derived, and leukocyte-derived microparticles.
- Endothelial cell-derived microparticle levels were similar between groups.
- Elevated microparticles suggest pro-inflammatory and pro-coagulant states.
Conclusions:
- Minimally symptomatic OSA is associated with increased levels of specific microparticles.
- These elevations suggest a potential increase in cardiovascular risk.
- Further research is warranted to confirm the clinical implications.
