Mechanism of Endothelial Dysfunction in Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)

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Impaired vascular regulation of the microcirculation is a consequence of Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). Nitric Oxide (NO) related endothelial dysfunction occurs in OSA as the earliest vascular abnormality prior to the manifestation of vascular disease and it results in impaired vasodilatory response...

Impaired vascular regulation of the microcirculation is a consequence of Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). Nitric Oxide (NO) related endothelial dysfunction occurs in OSA as the earliest vascular abnormality prior to the manifestation of vascular disease and it results in impaired vasodilatory response to hypoxia. These abnormalities have already been described in OSA patients. The role of oxidative stress in endothelial dysfunction is present in vascular disorders. The presence of oxidative stress in OSA patients is also well established. The effect of increased superoxide on endothelial function has also been described in the literature. The mechanism of this effect is unknown and is the focus of this research. We hypothesized that patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) who are free of any cardiovascular disease will have early microcirculatory changes that are unique to OSA, and therefore would resolve with treatment of OSA.

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