In conclusion, we have shown that MC4R agonists increase the HCVR, increase minute ventilation during sleep and wakefulness, and abolish apneas and oxyhemoglobin desaturations during sleep, treating sleep-disordered breathing in obesity, and that the respiratory effects of MC4R agonists occur in the parafacial region, possibly in the RTN. This evidence concerns the gene MC4R and sleep apnea syndrome.