Research the influence of sleep 24 hours on metabolism

2014/07/09 Galarraga Aiestaran, Ana - Elhuyar Zientzia Iturria: Elhuyar aldizkaria

• Osasuna
• Medikuntza
• Anatomia/Fisiologia

Lack of sleep and disruption of the day/night cycle is associated with metabolic disorders such as obesity and diabetes. A study done to better understand these effects has shown that after 24 hours without sleep, the concentration of some metabolites increases. Among these metabolites are some antidepressant effects such as tryptophan, serotonin and taurine.

Research has consisted of measuring the metabolites of twelve young men in a normal 24-hour cycle, including sleep, and after staying awake 24 hours. Comparing the data, in 171 measured metabolites, it is observed that most present alterations within the day/night cycle. Researchers believe that knowing these issues is very useful in deciding when and how to take medicines, so that they are even more effective and safe.

In addition, they have shown that of these 171 metabolites, 27 are significantly increased due to lack of sleep, including tryptophan, serotonin and taurine. According to the researchers, this may be the reason for the antidepressant effect generated by lack of sleep. However, they have admitted that further research would be necessary for this.

The research, conducted in collaboration between Surrey University, London Cancer Center and Erasmus Medical Center (Holland), has been published in the journal PNAS.