Circulating levels of miR125a, miR126, and miR146a-5p in patients with obstructive sleep apnea and their relation with markers of endothelial dysfunction

Abstract

Background obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a prevalent sleep disorder that is associated with increased risk factors for cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Oxidative stress, insulin resistance, inflammation, and endothelial dysfunction are increased in OSA patients and microRNAs (miRs) are regulatory elements that influence these pathological mechanisms. miR125a, miR126, and miR146a-5p play a role in these pathological mechanisms and have not been evaluated in patients with OSA. Method This case-control study was performed on 90 OSA patients and 34 controls. Circulating levels of miR125a, miR126, and miR146a-5 were determined using real-time PCR, and serum levels of hsCRP, ICAM-1, and VCAM-1 were evaluated using ELISA kits. Results miR125a and miR146a were elevated in patients with OSA compared to controls while miR126 decreased significantly. All three miRs indicated a remarkable difference between the mild-OSA group compared to the severe-OSA group. Furthermore, patients with OSA showed elevated levels of hsCRP, ICAM-1, and VCAM-1. Multiple linear regression indicated an independent association of miR125a with ICAM-1 and hsCRP, miR126 associated with VCAM-1 and total cholesterol, and miR146a-5p represented an association with apnea-hypopnea index and ICAM-1. Furthermore, miR146a-5p illustrated a good diagnostic ability to differentiate between OSA and controls. Conclusions Circulating miR125a, miR126, and miR146a-5p fluctuations in patients with OSA and their relations with markers of endothelial dysfunction provide in vivo evidence and suggest a potential role for these miRs with endothelial dysfunction in patients with OSA.

Unraveling the Complexities of Oxidative Stress and Inflammation Biomarkers in Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome: A Comprehensive Review

“…Promising data are also present on the role of miRNA as a novel biomarker for OSA patients. The work of Fadaei et al supports the potential utility of circulating miRNAs, specifically miR125a, miR126, and miR146a-5p, as biomarkers for endothelial dysfunction in OSA patients, which could serve as non-invasive diagnostic tools [65]. The transition from physiological adaptation to pathological maladaptation in response to chronic intermittent hypoxia, a hallmark of OSA, is discussed by Arnaud et al, providing insights into the systemic effects of the disorder [66].…”

“…Unfortunately, the specific mechanisms triggering the development of endothelial dysfunction in OSA remain unclear [62]. Exposure to harmful cellular risks, such as oxidative stress, may result in endothelial dysfunction [63][64][65], leading to a reduction in its ability to dilate blood vessels, an elevation in proinflammatory and prothrombotic reactions, and abnormal regulation of vascular growth [66]. OSAS induces intermittent hypoxia, triggering oxidative stress and inflammation.…”