Researchers at the University of Zurich tested whether a single saliva sample can show acute sleep deprivation. They asked volunteers to follow three sleep conditions: no sleep, shorter sleep and normal sleep.
The team used high-resolution analysis and computer methods to search many molecules in saliva. They found a group of molecules that reliably indicate tiredness. The project will move to a larger international field study to check the method under real conditions. In the future, a fast on-site test could help improve road and workplace safety.
Difficult words
- researcher — person who studies and tests thingsResearchers
- saliva — clear liquid made in the mouth
- deprivation — not having enough of something necessary
- high-resolution — showing small details very clearly
- molecule — very small part of a chemical substancemolecules
- reliably — in a way that can be trusted
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Would you volunteer to give a saliva sample for this test? Why or why not?
- How could a fast on-site test help road and workplace safety?
- When do you feel tired and need more sleep?
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