March 7, 2025 from Science Alert
We’ve long known that skimping on sleep can take a toll on mood, memory, and long-term health. But a recent study from the Dasman Diabetes Institute adds a new layer to this understanding — showing that even one night of sleep deprivation can significantly alter immune system function.
Published in The Journal of Immunology, the study suggests that sleep loss can trigger immune changes similar to those seen in obesity — increasing inflammation and potentially contributing to the development of conditions like diabetes and heart disease.
What the study found
Researchers recruited 237 healthy Kuwaiti adults and assessed their sleep quality, body mass index (BMI), and blood markers of immune function and inflammation. Those with obesity tended to sleep less and had higher levels of low-grade chronic inflammation. They also showed elevated numbers of “non-classical” monocytes — a type of immune cell linked to inflammatory responses.
In a second phase of the study, five healthy adults were monitored during a 24-hour period without sleep. After just one night of sleep deprivation, their monocyte profiles began to resemble those of the participants with obesity.
This change in immune cell patterns is known to promote systemic inflammation — a key factor in many chronic diseases.
Why sleep loss fuels inflammation
Non-classical monocytes normally help regulate inflammation by patrolling the body for threats. But when overactivated — as seen with poor sleep — they may contribute to persistent, low-grade inflammation that drives metabolic and cardiovascular conditions.
Lead author Fatema Al-Rashed noted that these changes reflect a growing societal issue.
“Advancements in technology, prolonged screen time, and shifting societal norms are increasingly disruptive to regular sleeping hours,”
said Al-Rashed.
Implications for public health
The findings underscore the importance of sleep not just for mental clarity and daily function, but as a cornerstone of immune regulation. Al-Rashed suggests that future research should explore interventions like structured sleep therapies or tech-use guidelines to counteract the growing problem of sleep disruption.
In the long term, she envisions sleep-related public health strategies — including workplace reforms and educational campaigns — to reduce the burden of inflammatory diseases.
Considering an IME or document review to resolve an insurance claim, legal file, or workplace health and safety issue?
Our specialists provide evidence-based opinions, so get in touch with Western Medical today to learn more about our services.