News Genetics

This bacteria-fighting protein also induces sleep

Infected fruit flies slept more and survived longer when levels of Nemuri surged

fruit fly brain

SLEEPING OFF SICKNESS  A protein called Nemuri (green) is produced in fruit fly brains (purple) and helps the insects stay asleep. Nemuri’s lullaby may also help flies sleep away sickness and stress.

Univ. of Pennsylvania

By Tina Hesman Saey

- More than 2 years ago

“Feed a cold, starve a fever,” or so the adage goes.