Obstructive Sleep Apnoea and Adipose Tissue Dysfunction

Assessment of Hypoxia in Adipose Tissue of Subjects With Obstructive Sleep Apnoea

Dysfunctional adipose tissue predisposes to cardiovascular disease. Similarly, the risk of cardiovascular disease appears to be increased in subjects with obstructive sleep apnoea. Reduced adipose tissue oxygen availability has been described in obesity and may also be a mechanism in obstructive sleep apnoea. Hypoxia induces inflammation and fibrosis in adipose tissue which are factors contributing to cardiovascular risk. The investigators hypothesize that adipose tissue's oxygen uptake is reduced in subjects with obstructive sleep apnoea by comparing in vivo AT oxygenation and blood flow in tissue of control subjects.

Assessment includes a adipose tissue biopsy and measurement of oxygenation and blood flow by a Clarke type electrodes and non-invasive Doppler techniques.

Inclusion Criteria:

• men with or without obstructive sleep apnoea

Exclusion Criteria:

• weight loss interventions
• steroid use
• active smoking