Researchers find second 'short sleep' gene

Thursday, August 29, 2019
SAN FRANCISCO -- People who do not get much sleep, but are always full of energy might be able to thank their genes.

Researchers at the University of California San Francisco have discovered a second short-sleep gene called ADRB1. People that have the gene feel rested after less than 6.5 hours of sleep; most of us need at least eight hours. The gene mutation allows the individuals to get better rest even when their sleep schedules change.
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In 2009, researchers discovered a gene mutation called DEC2; people who have it feel rested after averaging only 6.25 hours of sleep.
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Researchers say the better they understand the genetics behind the sleep, the more they're learning about issues that impact it, like insomnia.

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