The gut microbiome and obstructive sleep apnea syndrome in children

Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) in children has become a major public health problem that affects the physical and mental growth of children. OSAS can result in adverse outcomes during growth and development, inhibiting the normal development of the metabolic, cardiovascular, and immune systems. OSAS is characterized by partial or complete obstruction of the upper airway, and prolonged obstruction that causes intermittent hypoxia and sleep fragmentation in children. The human microbiota is a complex community that is in dynamic equilibrium in the human body. Intermittent hypoxia and sleep fragmentation induced by childhood OSAS alter the composition of the gut microbiome. At the same time, changes in the gut microbiome affect sleep patterns in children through immunomodulatory and metabolic mechanisms, and induce further comorbidities, such as obesity, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease. This article discusses recent progress in research into the mechanisms of OSAS-induced changes in the gut microbiota and its pathophysiology in children.