Biological Clues To Daytime Drowsiness: New Study Unveils Key Metabolites
A fresh study provides insight into the biological roots of excessive daytime sleepiness, a challenging condition where individuals feel a persistent urge to nap during activities like work or even meals. These findings, published in The Lancet eMedicine, encourage further exploration of how lifestyle, nutrition, and environmental factors might interact with genetics to influence our alertness.
Highlighting that excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS) isn't merely due to insufficient rest, the research led by Tamar Sofer, of Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, delves into identifying biomarkers that could explain why some face constant drowsiness despite seemingly healthy sleep habits.
In collaboration with Harvard-affiliated BIDMC and Brigham and Women’s Hospital, researchers used metabolite analysis to explore the underlying biology of EDS. Metabolites, small molecules formed during the body's various functions, were measured to create a detailed profile of this condition.
By examining blood samples from over 6,000 participants in the Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos, investigators pinpointed seven metabolites significantly associated with heightened EDS levels. These metabolites are linked to steroid production and other biological processes already connected to the disorder. Interestingly, additional metabolites were found in male participants, suggesting possible sex-based biological differences.
This study strengthens the notion that EDS can reflect physiological conditions, potentially diagnosable through blood tests or addressable via targeted treatments. Tariq Faquih, a lead author, notes that understanding the biological processes behind EDS could lead to new ways to prevent or manage sleep disorders marked by daytime drowsiness.
Supported by the National Institutes of Health and the National Institute on Aging, this research offers a promising step toward addressing a common yet complex health issue.