Intermittent Hypoxia as a Model of Obstructive Sleep Apnea: Present and Future

IH research faces significant challenges due to the variability in experimental protocols and the complexity of replicating human OSA conditions in a reproducibility constrained laboratory setting. Standardizing IH protocols, considering patient variability, and using diverse animal models will be essential steps to improve the reliability and translational relevance of IH studies. Addressing key issues such as the severity, frequency, and chronicity of IH exposures will enable a more accurate representation of OSA in preclinical models. Collaborative efforts, including interdisciplinary consortia and centralized data repositories, are vital for advancing IH research and developing effective therapeutic strategies for OSA. By enhancing the consistency and comprehensiveness of IH studies, researchers can better understand the pathophysiologic mechanisms underlying OSA and its comorbidities, ultimately informing clinical practice and improving patient outcomes.