Genetic disorder related with sleep patterns

Scientists have discovered a genetic disorder which they say is responsible for people who find it impossible to stay up late or sleep in. The findings could lead to new treatments for jet lag, insomnia and seasonal depression.

The researchers from the University of Utah say people who cannot stay awake much after 8.30pm and who wake up around 5.30am may be suffering from a disorder called "familial advanced sleep-phase syndrome". This means the person's body clock is three to four hours faster than normal.

Writing in Nature Medicine, the scientists, led by Dr Louis Ptacek, say they found 34 people in three families who suffered from the disorder. In one family, a grandmother, daughter and grandchild all had the disorder which is not the same as simply finding it difficult to stay in bed in the morning.

Scientists hope that by studying the syndrome they may be able to identify the gene responsible.This could lead them to the protein it produces to cause the shortened time clock which, in turn, could be used to formulate new drugs to treat jet lag and other conditions. However, they admit that it will take some time to isolate the gene.

David Earnest of Texas A&M University said: "This is the first time that anyone has identified a genetically inherited trait that involves the expression and control of the circadian rhythm in humans. That's really critical." He added that finding the key to different patterns of circadian rhythm could help researchers to discover their role in jet lag, seasonal affective disorder and other mental health problems.

Insomnia

Difficulty in initiating and maintaining sleep is known as insomnia. It is a symptom that occurs due to other disorders and can cause daytime sleepiness.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Obstructive sleep apnea should be suspected in overweight middle aged adults who snore loudly and which can cause interruption of breathing for 10 seconds or more and this results in reduced blood o

Periodic Limb Movement Disorder

Periodic limb movement disorder (PLMD) is a sleep disorder which causes repetitive cramping or jerking of the legs, resulting in disturbance of sleep.

REM Behavior Disorder

REM Behavior Disorder (RBD) is a sleep disorder in which the person acts out dramatic or violent dreams during Rapid Eye Movement (REM) sleep.

Sleep

Sleep is a behavioral state of restricted physical activity. It is controlled by our internal biological clock.

Sleep Disorder : Restless Legs Syndrome

Restless legs syndrome (RLS) causes - An urge to move, usually due to uncomfortable sensations that occur primarily in the legs.

Sleep Disorder: Sleepwalking

Sleepwalking or “Somnambulism,” is a type of parasomnia and has medico-legal implications

Sleep Disturbances In Women

The physical, emotional and hormonal changes that occur in women during puberty, menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and menopause can cause Sleep Disturbances