[Sleep disorders and oxidative stress]

Sleep disorders represent a significant medical and social issue, closely linked to the development of oxidative stress and cognitive impairment. This review summarizes current evidence for a bidirectional association between sleep disorders and oxidative stress. Sleep deprivation and chronic insomnia are associated with the accumulation of reactive oxygen species, mitochondrial dysfunction, neuroinflammation, and lipid damage, which together create a cycle that exacerbates sleep disturbances and contributes to cognitive impairment. The role of intermittent hypoxia in obstructive sleep apnea syndrome, which causes damage to hippocampal and cortical neurons, is highlighted. The involvement of the transcription factor NRF2 and ferroptosis in the pathogenesis of sleep disorders is discussed. The antioxidant properties of melatonin, polyphenols, vitamins C and E, coenzyme Q10, and ergothioneine are reviewed, as these compounds may improve sleep quality by reducing oxidative stress, regulating circadian rhythms, and providing anti-inflammatory effects. The potential for incorporating antioxidants into comprehensive therapy for sleep disorders is also considered.