Additionally, we found that SQLE knockdown in OSA cell lines led to reduced proliferation and increased apoptosis, attributed to cholesterol reduction and subsequent suppression of the FAK/PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway, which aligns with prior findings that cholesterol depletion triggers apoptosis through FAK inactivation, internalization of lipid rafts and reduced cell adhesion.85 The gene discussed is PTK2; the disease is obstructive sleep apnea syndrome.