Characterization of circRNA expression profiles and functional roles in a mouse model of liver injury induced by OSA

Despite mounting evidence linking circular RNAs (circRNAs) to various diseases, their specific role in liver damage triggered by obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) remains ambiguous. This study investigates alterations in circRNA expression patterns in a mouse model subjected to chronic intermittent hypoxia (CIH), aiming to elucidate the pathways that lead to liver damage associated with OSA. We established the CIH model and conducted circRNA microarray analysis on liver samples from both CIH and control groups. The findings were substantiated via qRT-PCR. Furthermore, a comprehensive circRNA-miRNA-mRNA (ceRNA) network was developed, followed by the analysis of GO and KEGG pathways to further elucidate the underlying biological processes. We identified 259 differentially expressed circRNAs, comprising 86 that were upregulated and 173 that were downregulated in CIH mice. The ceRNA analysis suggested that these circRNAs may modulate gene expression by sequestering miRNAs. Our findings highlight potential therapeutic targets for liver pathologies associated with OSA.