CDH1 reduces endothelial cell permeability by enhancing CDH5 membrane expression under chronic intermittent hypoxia

Chronic intermittent hypoxia (CIH) is the primary pathophysiological basis of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). However, a certain degree of CIH may enhance vascular stability and protect the cardiovascular system.This study aimed to explore the protective role of CDH1 proteins, known as E-cadherin, on the vascular endothelium under CIH, thereby reducing vascular injury from a novel perspective. An endothelial cell model exposed to CIH and oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL) were developed. Immunofluorescence staining and FITC-dextran for endothelial permeability were applied to indicate that under CIH, CDH1 exerts a protective effect on vascular endothelial cells by reducing their permeability through promoting the expression of CDH5, referred to as VE-cadherin, on the cell membrane. In contrast, the damage to cells caused by ox-LDL has led to a notable decrease in the expression of the CDH1 protein on the cell membrane. Therefore, the CDH1 protein may be a novel target for treating vascular endothelial cell injury.