Related Experiment Video
Updated: Nov 4, 2025

Polygraphic Recording Procedure for Measuring Sleep in Mice
Published on: January 25, 2016
The Insomnia-Addiction Positive Feedback Loop: Role of the Orexin System
Jennifer E Fragale1, Morgan H James1, Jorge A Avila1
1Brain Health Institute, Rutgers Biomedical Health Sciences, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA.
Abstract:
Significant sleep impairments often accompany substance use disorders (SUDs). Sleep disturbances in SUD patients are associated with poor clinical outcomes and treatment adherence, emphasizing the importance of normalizing sleep when treating SUDs. Orexins (hypocretins) are neuropeptides exclusively produced by neurons in the posterior hypothalamus that regulate various behavioral and physiological processes, including sleep-wakefulness and motivated drug taking. Given its dual role in sleep and addiction, the orexin system represents a promising therapeutic target for treating SUDs and their comorbid sleep deficits. Here, we review the literature on the role of the orexin system in sleep and drug addiction and discuss the therapeutic potential of orexin receptor antagonists for SUDs. We argue that orexin receptor antagonists may be effective therapeutics for treating addiction because they target orexin's regulation of sleep (top-down) and motivation (bottom-up) pathways.
More Related Videos
08:58Optogenetic Manipulation of Neural Circuits During Monitoring Sleep/wakefulness States in Mice
Published on: June 19, 2019
06:23A Chronic Sleep Fragmentation Model using Vibrating Orbital Rotor to Induce Cognitive Deficit and Anxiety-Like Behavior in Young Wild-Type Mice
Published on: September 22, 2020
Related Concept Videos
Sleep-Wake Cycles
NREM Sleep
NREM sleep comprises four progressive stages that seamlessly merge:
Management of Insomnia
Substance Use Disorders Affecting Sleep
Understanding the concepts of physical dependence,...
Narcolepsy
Drug Abuse and Addiction: Pharmacological Phenomena
Insomnia
Multiple factors contribute...