Episode Details

We all know the feeling of tiredness, but what causes the urge to sleep?  Prof. Lior Appelbaum discusses the link between sleepiness and DNA damage, as sensed through the accumulation of a protein known as PARP1.  PARP1 is well known for its roles in DNA repair.  Prof. Appelbaum’s team has examined PARP1 accumulation in animal models and shown strong evidence that the desire to sleep is triggered by DNA damage, and the desire to sleep involves action by PARP1. The conclusion is that tiredness should not be ignored, as it is a signal that there is some DNA damage to be corrected, and may play a role in long-term brain health.

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The Talking Biotech podcast is distinct from Dr. Kevin Folta's teaching and research roles at the University of Florida. The views expressed on the show are those of Dr. Folta and his guests, and do not reflect the opinions of the university or Colabra.