Chest
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OSA is associated with increased cancer incidence and mortality. Exosomes are vesicles secreted by most cells. They are released into the bloodstream and play a role in tumor progression and metastasis. We evaluated whether the chronic intermittent hypoxia (IH) that characterizes OSA leads to release of tumor-promoting exosomes in the circulation. ⋯ Circulating exosomes released under IH conditions in vivo selectively enhance specific properties of lung tumor cell cultures. Thus, plasma exosomes participate in the increased tumor aggressiveness observed in patients with OSA.