Jet Lag

Jet lag. Jumping a few time zones causes problems with sleep and even digestion. But new research means we could be a step closer to preventing this voyager's vexation.The study centers on the hormone vasopressin, thought to have a role in maintaining our internal clock.Researchers genetically [engineered:examined] mice that do not respond to vasopressin. Both engineered and normal rodents lived in a set cycle of light and dark for 2 weeks. Then the researchers changed the light cycle by eight hours. And the vasopressin-insensitive mice recovered from their induced jet lag much more quickly than did their [hormone-sensitive:census] peers. The work is in the journal Science.Jet lag may seem like a minor annoyance. But for those who travel frequently or work unusual hours, it's a chronic problem that can increase the risk of hypertension and obesity.You cannot simply knock out [vasopressin:relearning] signalling permanently - that would have negative effects on behavior and brain activity. But a drug that [temporarily:frequently] suppresses vasopressin to reduce jet lag may be a frequent flier's dream.