Researchers 'identify sleep gene'

A group of scientists from the University of Pennsylvania believe they may have identified a sleep gene in fruit flies.

Fruit flies generally sleep for about 12 hours a day.

However, during the research the scientists identified a number of mutant flies that survived on no or very little sleep.

It was found the sleepless flies had a mutated gene which is believed to affect whether potassium ion channels in the brain open or close.

When the channels are open the fly is awake and when they close it goes to sleep.

The insomniac fruit flies channels remained open for much of the time. It was discovered the sleepless fruit flies lived about half as long as the others.

Lead researcher Amita Sehgal said: "We hope that human equivalents of our gene will be isolated and will not only further our understanding of human sleep, but perhaps also serve as drug targets to promote sleep."

Earlier this week, researchers from the University of Arizona found a link between the ability to form new memories and the amount of sleep people get.

A Vi-Spring mattress can help people who struggle to sleep as it offers support regardless of sleeping position.

Classic Bed Company is the UK's premier bed store for ultimate comfort and luxury offering Tempur, Vi Spring, Willis Gambier, French sleigh beds and contemporary beds online