Therefore, you can thrive on only three hours of sleep

Since the year 2000, Professor FU and her team have analyzed genetic mutations in people who naturally sleep six hours or less per night. Until now, five mutations have been found in four different genes that can explain the remarkable ability.

In the latest study, the researchers identified a mutation in the gene SIK3, which is involved in the brain’s signal processes. When the researchers transferred this mutation to mice, the genetically modified animals slept on average 31 minutes less than normal mice – a small but significant finding.

According to Professor Clifford Saper of Harvard Medical School, the results indicate that the effect of the SIK3 mutation is modest but relevant.

« It can give us important insights into how the brain regulates sleep and what causes sleepiness, » he says.

The researchers’ hope is that a mapping of several genetic variations will lead to better treatments for sleep disorders such as insomnia and sleep apnea.

A British study from 2022 found that people who sleep less than five hours a night for extended periods have up to 20 percent higher risk of developing chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease and dementia.

In short: Unless you have the right genes, you should probably stick to the recommended seven hours of night’s sleep.