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Study Reveals Sleep's Ancient Role in DNA Protection

1/11/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Bar-Ilan University researchers report that sleep evolved to protect neurons from DNA damage, a function dating back hundreds of millions of years.
The study examined jellyfish and sea anemones, which exhibit sleep patterns similar to humans.
DNA damage accumulates during wakefulness and decreases during sleep.
When deprived of sleep, the animals showed 'sleep rebound,' sleeping longer to recover.

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Story summary

Bar-Ilan University researchers report that sleep evolved to protect neurons from DNA damage, a function dating back hundreds of millions of years.
The study examined jellyfish and sea anemones, which exhibit sleep patterns similar to humans.
DNA damage accumulates during wakefulness and decreases during sleep.
When deprived of sleep, the animals showed 'sleep rebound,' sleeping longer to recover.