Structural and functional changes in obstructive sleep apnea and their associated gene expression profiles

Motivation: The genetic mechanisms underlying the structural and functional changes in the brain of patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) are largely unknown. Goal(s): This study investigates the gene expression patterns related to brain structure and function in patients with OSA. Approach: We explore the gene expression profiles associated with changes in brain structure and function in OSA based on transcriptome-neuroimaging spatial correlation analysis. Results: The brain regions associated with cognition, emotion, and sleep regulation have undergone changes in the OSA group. Genes associated with altered brain structure and function are predominantly enriched in activities related to gated channels and synaptic communication. Impact: Our study suggests that complex polygenic genetic mechanisms play a role in brain morphological and functional abnormalities in OSA, providing a new perspective on the relationship between genes, and brain function in patients with obstructive sleep apnea.