Is elevated ENA-78 serum level a link between obstructive sleep apnea and atherosclerosis?

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular research
• Sleep medicine
• Inflammation and immunology

Background:

• Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a known risk factor for cardiovascular disease, inflammation, and oxidative stress.
• Carotid artery stenosis (CAS) shares inflammatory pathways with OSA.
• Understanding shared molecular mechanisms is crucial for managing comorbid conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare serum levels of various factors in patients with CAS, with or without OSA.
• To identify potential molecular mediators of inflammation in CAS patients with OSA.
• To investigate the role of specific factors, like ENA-78, in the inflammatory process associated with intermittent hypoxia.

Main Methods:

• Sixty-eight patients undergoing surgical treatment for CAS were enrolled.
• Overnight polygraphy was used to diagnose or exclude OSA.
• Serum levels of proinflammatory cytokines, chemotactic, and angiogenic factors were measured in the morning.

Main Results:

• Significant differences in serum factor levels were observed between CAS patients with and without OSA.
• ENA-78 (Epithelial-derived neutrophil attractant-78) serum concentration showed the most profound difference between the groups.
• Other measured factors also exhibited variations, though ENA-78 was most notable.

Conclusions:

• ENA-78 serum concentration is significantly altered in CAS patients with coexisting OSA.
• ENA-78 may be a key molecule involved in the inflammatory response to intermittent hypoxia in this patient population.
• Further research is warranted to elucidate the specific role of ENA-78 in atherosclerosis associated with OSA.