The Interaction between Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Parkinson's Disease: Possible Mechanisms and Implications for...

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Sleep Medicine
• Neurodegeneration

Background:

• Parkinson's disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder with motor and nonmotor symptoms (NMS).
• Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common sleep disorder linked to cognitive deficits and brain changes.
• Emerging evidence suggests a connection between OSA and increased NMS in PD, particularly cognitive dysfunction.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the potential interrelationship between OSA and PD.
• To explore mechanisms underlying OSA in PD patients.
• To examine how OSA may influence the neurodegenerative process in PD.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on the intersection of OSA and PD.
• Analysis of existing neuroimaging and animal model studies.
• Synthesis of evidence on OSA's impact on PD pathophysiology and NMS.

Main Results:

• OSA is prevalent in PD, though prevalence estimates vary.
• OSA is associated with increased NMS in PD, notably cognitive impairment.
• Animal models show OSA can induce brain inflammation and oxidative injury in areas relevant to PD.

Conclusions:

• A significant interrelationship likely exists between OSA and PD.
• Further research is needed to elucidate shared mechanisms and clinical implications.
• Addressing OSA may be a key strategy for managing NMS and potentially modifying PD progression.