This research dives deeper into the molecular mechanisms behind this process.
How It Works
Humans and most other vertebrates operate on acircadian rhythm.
This is a biological clock which moderates periods of activity and inactivity.
Photoboyko / Getty Images
This clock operates with what scientists call a feedback loop.
At night, these proteins turn these transcription factors off, working like a brake.
Researchers found that a mutation can cause the tail of the protein cryptochrome to be snipped.
Partch says the effect is similar to holding down a brake for longer than is typical.
When this happens, the body does not cycle between an active and inactive phase normally.
Her lab is in the process of doing just that, looking for molecules that can fill this gap.
Delayed sleep phase disorder is hereditary.
Its a common form of insomnia that affects about 1 in 75 people of European descent.
This is remarkably prevalent, Partch says.
If youre in a crowded room, someone probably has it.
People with this genetic variation go to sleep early in the evening and wake up early in the morning.
Humans circadian rhythms are highly responsive to light.
Almost none of this is by choice," Partch says.
This will help encourage melatonin production.
Stephens T.Scientists discover how a common mutation leads to night owl sleep disorder.University of California, Santa Cruz.
2017;169(2):203-215.e13.
