Sleep-triggering brain cells discovered

A new study has revealed which brain cells trigger the urge to go to bed and sleep, which could lead to scientific advancements in the future.

Now that the cells have been identified, drugs to induce sleep when it is needed or stave off sleep when it is dangerous could be better developed, the Hindu reported.

Scientists from Tufts University School of Medicine in Boston and the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine collaborated on the investigation.

It was found that the cells release adenosine, a chemical known to have sleep-inducing effects which are inhibited by caffeine.

Merrill Mitler, programme director at the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Strokes, said: "Millions of Americans suffer from disorders that prevent a full night's sleep and others - from pilots to combat soldiers - have jobs where sleepiness is a hazard."

Meanwhile, Dr Helen Pilcher from London's Institute of Psychiatry, recently spoke about a new study which shows that laughing can help relieve stress and encourage people to get a better night's sleep in bed, the Daily Record reported.