HUNTINGTON, WV – A recent scientific review conducted by researchers at Marshall University in West Virginia sheds light on the intricate relationship between gut health and sleep apnea. The study suggests that changes in gut microbiota can potentially worsen sleep apnea symptoms by triggering inflammation and disrupting gut-barrier function.
The research, led by Marshall medical student Rebecca Hicks and published in Sleep Medicine journal, explores how alterations in gut microbiota composition may contribute to the development and severity of sleep-disordered breathing, particularly obstructive sleep apnea. By causing “Leaky gut” and promoting systemic inflammation, imbalances in gut microbiota can exacerbate the symptoms of sleep apnea and lead to further complications.
In addition to highlighting the impact of gut microbiota on sleep apnea, the review delves into the role of extracellular vesicles (EVs) in mediating communication between gut microbes and regions of the brain responsible for regulating sleep. These EVs have the potential to modulate immune responses, transport microbial signals to the brain, and serve as biomarkers or therapeutic targets for addressing the gut-brain axis in sleep apnea.
Researchers, including David Gozal, Sarfraz Ahmed, and Abdelnaby Khalyfa from Marshall University, emphasize the need for longitudinal studies to better understand how changes in gut microbiome over time can influence the development and consequences of sleep apnea. They also advocate for further exploration into how microbial species and their byproducts affect sleep, as well as the development of novel treatments focused on improving gut health to manage sleep apnea effectively.
According to Khalyfa, professor of biomedical sciences at Marshall University and mentor to lead author Rebecca Hicks, this type of innovative research not only advances the understanding of sleep apnea but also highlights the important role early career trainees can play in shaping the future of medicine, particularly in the realm of sleep disorders.
The review suggests that targeting gut health through microbiome-based therapies could offer innovative approaches to managing sleep apnea and improving outcomes for individuals affected by this prevalent sleep disorder. By exploring the intricate connection between gut health and sleep apnea, researchers hope to pave the way for new treatment strategies that address the underlying mechanisms of the disorder and enhance overall sleep quality for patients.