Unveiling the Sleep-Immune Crosstalk: A Comprehensive Study on the Relationship Between Immune Cells and Insomnia

 

Insomnia, a prevalent sleep disorder, has captured widespread attention in the realm of public health. Recent studies have shed light on the intricate interplay between the immune system and sleep, although the specific mechanisms remain elusive. In our pursuit of understanding this relationship, our study employed a cutting-edge approach – a comprehensive two-sample Mendelian randomization analysis. Leveraging publicly available genetic data, we delved into the causal connection between 731 immune cell traits and the risk of insomnia. Our rigorous methodology included thorough sensitivity analyses to ensure the reliability, consistency, and absence of confounding factors in our results.

Findings:

Investigation identified 14 immune phenotypes distributed among four immune profiles (MFI, RC, AC, and MP) that exhibited a significant causal association with insomnia. Notably, eight immune cell phenotypes were linked to an increased risk of insomnia:

1. CD11c+ monocyte% (P < 0.001)

2. CD11c+ HLA DR++ monocyte% (P = 0.004)

3. CD86+ plasmoid dendritic cell (DC) AC (P < 0.001)

4. CD33br HLA DR+ CD14dim AC (P < 0.001)

5. CD8dim AC (P = 0.002)

6. CCR2 on CD14+ CD16- monocyte (P < 0.001)

7. CD39 on monocyte (P < 0.001)

8. SSC-A on myeloid DC (P < 0.001)

Conversely, six immune cell phenotypes demonstrated protective effects against insomnia:

1. PB/PC% B cell (P < 0.001)

2. CM CD4+% CD4+ (P < 0.001)

3. T cell AC (P < 0.001)

4. BAFF-R on IgD- CD38br (P < 0.001)

5. CD16-CD56 on HLA DR+ NK cells (P < 0.001)

6. CD14 on CD33br HLA DR+ CD14dim (P < 0.001)

Conclusion:

Our groundbreaking study has established a compelling correlation between immune cells and insomnia, employing the Mendelian randomization method. This research not only contributes to our understanding of the intricate web of sleep and immune system interactions but also lays the foundation for a novel theoretical framework – the concept of sleep-immune crosstalk. By unraveling these connections, our findings open avenues for further exploration and potential therapeutic interventions for individuals grappling with insomnia. As we continue to delve into the fascinating intersection of sleep and immunity, the implications of our study resonate across public health and beyond.