Aortic remodelling induced by obstructive apneas is normalized with mesenchymal stem cells infusion

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Research
• Sleep Medicine
• Regenerative Medicine

Background:

• Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is linked to aortic issues like dilatation, stiffness, and atherosclerosis.
• The precise mechanisms driving vascular remodeling in OSA remain unclear.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate vascular remodeling in the aorta caused by OSA.
• To explore the underlying molecular mechanisms of OSA-induced vascular changes.
• To evaluate the therapeutic potential of mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) in a rat model of OSA.

Main Methods:

• A non-invasive rat model of chronic OSA was established using recurrent airway obstructions.
• Sham-operated rats without obstructions served as controls.
• Vascular remodeling, molecular markers (ROS, RAS, nitric oxide), and the impact of MSC infusions were assessed.

Main Results:

• Chronic OSA induced significant aortic remodeling, including eccentric hypertrophy, increased wall thickness, and lumen diameter.
• Elastin fibers in the aorta increased but showed signs of rupture; no changes in media fibrosis were observed.
• Elevated reactive oxygen species (ROS), renin-angiotensin system (RAS) markers, and nitric oxide imbalance were identified as potential mechanisms.
• MSC infusions attenuated OSA-related vascular alterations, likely via anti-inflammatory effects.

Conclusions:

• Repetitive airway obstructions mimicking OSA cause substantial structural changes in the thoracic aorta.
• Oxidative stress, RAS activation, and nitric oxide dysregulation are implicated in OSA-induced aortic remodeling.
• Mesenchymal stem cells show promise in ameliorating OSA-associated vascular damage, potentially through their anti-inflammatory actions.