Abstract: Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is independent risk factor of a variety of cardiovascular diseases. Endothelial injury could be the pivotal determinant in the development of cardiovascular pathology in OSA. Endothelial damage ultimately represents a dynamic balance between the magnitude of injury and the capacity for repair. Bone marrow-derived endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) within adult peripheral blood presented a possible means of vascular maintenance which could home to sites of injury and restore endothelial integrity and normal function. Methods We summarized pathogenetic mechanism of OSA, searched for available studies on number and functions of EPCs in patients with OSA to explore the links between the number and functions of EPCs and OSA. Especially, we try to elucidate molecular mechanisms of effect of OSA on EPCs.

Key words: 内皮祖细胞