Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) promotes distinct alterations in availability and function of innate immune cells

Introduction:

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common medical disorder that is closely associated with the occurrence of cardiovascular diseases and enhanced susceptibility to infections. Since such inflammatory pathologies are particularly controlled by myeloid leukocytes including neutrophils and monocytes, we hypothesize that OSA critically modulates the phenotype and function of these innate immune cells.

Methods:

Cell counts of neutrophils and monocytes as well as phagocytic capacity and surface expression of specific adhesion and signaling molecules of these immune cells were analyzed in the peripheral blood of patients with and without OSA by multi-channel flow cytometry.

Results:

OSA patients exhibited similar numbers of neutrophils and monocytes in their peripheral blood compared to control patients. However, the absolute numbers of intermediate and non-classical monocytes were significantly elevated in patients with OSA in comparison to patients without OSA. Interestingly, these changes were more pronounced in patients with advanced stages of the disease. Regarding the expression of specific key adhesion and signaling molecules on the surface of neutrophils and monocytes, no significant differences were observed between OSA patients and control patients. In contrast, the phagocytic behavior of neutrophils and classical monocytes was altered in OSA patients.

Conclusions:

Depending on disease severity, OSA promotes distinct alterations in myeloid leukocyte availability and function critical for proper innate immune responses. Therapeutic interventions in OSA should therefore aim at restoring immunological profiles of healthy individuals in these patients.

Publication History

Publication Date:
23 April 2019 (online)