Intact implicit probabilistic sequence learning in obstructive sleep apnea

Abstract

SUMMARYObstructive sleep apnea (OSA) belongs to the sleep-related breathing disorders and is associated with cognitive impairments in learning and memory functions. The impairments in attention-demanding cognitive functions such as working memory and executive functions are well established in OSA; however, it remains unknown if less attentiondemanding implicit sequence learning is affected. In the present study, we examined implicit sequence learning in OSA to probe the functional integrity of this fundamental learning mechanism. We used listening span to measure complex working memory capacity and the alternating serial reaction time (ASRT) task, which enables us to measure general skill learning and sequence-specific learning separately. Twenty OSA patients and 20 healthy controls participated in this study. Our data show dissociation between working memory and implicit sequence learning in OSA. Surprisingly, OSA patients showed preserved general skill and sequence-specific learning in spite of the possible hypoxia and sleep restriction. In contrast, working memory performance measured by listening span task was impaired in the OSA group. This finding suggests selective susceptibility of more attention-demanding cognitive functions in this patient population, while implicit learning remains intact. Our findings draw attention the fact that disordered sleep may have less impact on the integrity of structures connected to implicit sequence learning.

Treatment of sleep apnoea syndrome decreases cognitive decline in patients with Alzheimer's disease

“…The exploratory study found that the sustained use of CPAP therapy increased the likelihood of an improvement in executive functioning and psychomotor speed but was not associated with a significant effect on the rate of global cognitive decline (as evaluated by the MMSE) 13. This conflict with our findings may have been due to the smaller sample size, the shorter follow-up period (13.3±5.2 months) and the less severe SAS syndrome (AHI ≥10) in the study by Cooke et al ,14 relative to the present study.…”

“…In non-demented patients, SAS is associated with impairments in attention-demanding cognitive functions attention,14 delayed long-term visual and verbal memory, visuospatial abilities and executive function, whereas language ability is unaffected 15. CPAP treatment appears to improve executive dysfunction, memory, attention and global cognitive functioning 15.…”

The Impact of Obstructive Sleep Apnea on Motor Skill Acquisition and Consolidation

“…21,22 In contrast, studies that have utilized the mirror tracing task 6,15 have shown significantly flatter learning curves over practice periods, reflecting daytime practice-based learning impairments in OSA patients. However as a complex motor learning task, mirror tracing may be more susceptible to impairment in OSA populations, particularly as it relies on motor coordination and drawing, a domain that appears more substantially impaired than motor speed in OSAS.…”

Sleep apnea in the elderly

“…On the basis of these research results, it is also considered necessary that general diagnosis and treatment should be provided while keeping in mind the existence of SAS as a primary method for prevention of dementia in the elderly [40][41][42]43 && ]. It was indicated that repeated apnea at night in the elderly entailed the risk of reducing cognitive functions.…”