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Causal association between brain structure and obstructive sleep apnea: A mendelian randomization study

Yanjing Feng1, Jinze Wu2, Mingyang Yuan2

  • 1Department of Neurology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 138 Tongzipo Road, Changsha, Hunan, 410013, China; Department of Neurology, Baoding No. 1 Central Hospital of Heibei Medical University, Baoding, Hebei, 071000, China.

Sleep Medicine
|August 6, 2024
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is linked to changes in brain structure, including reduced cortical surface area and hippocampal volume. This Mendelian randomization study suggests a causal relationship, highlighting potential risks for individuals with OSA.

Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Genetics
  • Sleep Medicine

Background:

  • Conflicting findings exist regarding obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and brain morphology.
  • The causal link between OSA and brain structure alterations remains unclear.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the impact of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) on brain morphology using Mendelian randomization (MR).
  • To establish a potential causal relationship between OSA and changes in brain structure.

Main Methods:

  • Employed inverse-variance weighted (IVW), weighted median, and MR-Egger methods for MR analysis.
  • Conducted reverse MR analysis to determine causality direction.
  • Performed sensitivity analyses (Cochrane's Q, MR-Egger intercept, MR-PRESSO, leave-one-out).

Main Results:

  • Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) associated with decreased cortical surface area and precuneus hippocampal volume.
  • Increased superior temporal cortical surface area observed in OSA patients.
  • MR analyses and sensitivity tests confirmed the reliability of causal estimates.

Conclusions:

  • This study provides preliminary evidence linking obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) to specific brain structure alterations.
  • Results suggest OSA is causally associated with changes in brain morphology.
  • Individuals with OSA should be aware of potential neurological risks due to brain tissue alterations.
Keywords:
Brain structureCausal relationshipMendelian randomizationObstructive sleep apnea

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