Sleep & breathing = Schlaf & Atmung
-
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is independently associated with endothelial dysfunction, which may be perpetuated by alteration in endothelial repair capacity. Our study evaluates changes in endothelial progenitor cell (EPC) profile in relation to OSA and the role of advanced glycation end-products (AGE) in this relationship. ⋯ Nocturnal hypoxemia in OSA subjects was associated with increase in endothelial cells (CD34+) which may promote vascular repair. Accumulation of AGE in OSA may lead to diminution in early EPC (CD133+) and endothelial repair capacity over time, thus contributing to vascular pathogenesis.