Lack of Sleep, Alzheimers linked

In a new study published this week in "Science", researchers at Washington University witnessed a significant increase in accumulation of the protein Amyloid beta in mice when they were deprived of sleep.  High levels of Amyloid Beta that populate the extracellular space are a hallmark for Alzheimer's Disease and this link to sleep levels will raise concern for those who suffer from insomnia and other sleep related issues.  The study also links orexin, a protein associated with the regulation of sleep cycles, with the increased levels of AB.  When the mice were injected with orexin they stayed awake longer and the amount of AB increased dramatically, but when orexin was inhibited in the mice, AB decreased over time.  This shows hope as a possible treatment for Alzheimer's disease in the future.