A new sleep apnoea model that will help researchers to find answers to chronic pain has been developed.
Scientists at The University of Texas Health Science Centre at San Antonio School of Dentistry created a first of its kind sleep apnoea model for studying chronic pain.
To mimic the effects of obstructive sleep apnoea in a mouse model, the researchers created a chronic intermittent hypoxia environment.
After 14 days, the team observed an increase in cytokines, the molecules released by the immune system that tell other cells to produce an inflammatory state. In a state of chronic reduced oxygen, these released cytokines cause sensitivity in nociceptors that produce prolonged sensitivity to pain.
Sleep apnoea treatment
Results suggests that treatment correcting the chronic lack of oxygen or targets the peripheral macrophages could alleviate persistent pain for some obstructive sleep apnoea patients.
By identifying the mechanisms behind pain related to the condition, the teams says, future research can explore these and other targeted treatments.
‘This study represents a significant advancement in our understanding of the relationship between sleep apnea and chronic pain,’ said Peter Loomer, dean of the UT Health San Antonio School of Dentistry.
‘Insight into the role of oxygen deprivation in pain sensitisation will pave the way for innovative treatment approaches that could enhance patient outcomes.’
‘Insightful’ research
Nathaniel Jeske is the primary investigator of this study. He said most people that have obstructive sleep apnoea remain untreated.
‘The puzzle of pain remains unsolved. It has led to many untoward events including accelerating the epidemic of opioid use disorder,’ added Ken Hargreaves, professor in the Department of Endodontics at the university’s School of Dentistry.
‘The findings of Dr Jeske and his research team offer a novel and potentially insightful approach for resolving this puzzle for patients with obstructive sleep apnoea.’
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