Struggling with irregular sleep? It could increase your risk of serious diseases, according to Yale University research.
Our biological clock doesn't just control sleep-wake cycles—it also influences vulnerability to infections.
Scientists discovered that this clock regulates TLR9, a crucial immune system protein that detects viruses and bacteria. In mouse studies, higher TLR9 levels helped animals better resist infections. Critically, TLR9 production ties directly to sleep quality and duration.
"We intuitively know poor sleep lowers resistance," says Yale researcher Erol Fikrig. "Long flights disrupt sleep patterns, heightening susceptibility to pathogens."
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The team notes these findings from mice may extend to humans, impacting disease prevention and treatment. Nighttime mortality risks are elevated in hospitals, and ICU patients often endure disrupted sleep from noise, lights, and medications—changes that could improve outcomes.
