Katharina Buczek
Afterward, the researchers screened the effects of these genes in both fruit flies and zebrafish.
They ultimately found that mutations in one gene known as Pig-Q– which is necessary for the biosynthesis of a protein function modifier– actually increased sleep.
“Therefore, in humans, flies, and zebrafish, Pig-Q is associated with sleep regulation,” Keene revealed.
Now, the researchers’ next step is to analyze how GPI-anchor biosynthesis– a common protein modification– impacts sleep regulation. Plus, the team’s human-to-fruit flies and zebrafish research pipeline will also allow them to assess other traits such as aging, neurodegeneration, and memory.
In terms of sleep, though, Keene reiterated how understanding the role of genes in sleep regulation can pave the way for novel treatments for both insomnia and other sleep disorders.
“Moving forward, we will continue to use and study this system to identify more genes regulating sleep, which could point in the direction of new treatments for sleep disorders,” he said.
To read the study’s complete findings, visit the link here.
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