SCIENCE
Some people thrive on just four hours of sleep — and now scientists may know why.
By Aniket Chakraborty
May 12, 2025
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A rare genetic mutation called SIK3-N783Y may be the secret behind ‘super sleepers’.
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This mutation tweaks the brain’s sleep-wake cycle and boosts deep, high-quality sleep.
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The gene was studied in humans and genetically modified mice — both slept significantly less.
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Mice with the mutation slept 31 minutes less normally, and 54 minutes less after sleep deprivation.
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The mutation alters protein behavior, helping the brain maintain function even with little sleep.
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Unlike typical sleep-deprived people, these individuals don’t show signs of fatigue or illness.
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Researchers say this discovery could lead to therapies for insomnia and other sleep disorders.
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It may also help improve sleep quality in the general population, not just in short sleepers.
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As sleep science evolves, this mutation might reshape how we understand rest and recovery.
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