Sleepless nights could soon be a thing of the past as scientists discover a key chemical trigger that suppresses sleep and wakes people up.
Researchers from Boston University found that when the body has too little of the calcium kinase enzyme, it causes the brain to nod off to sleep.
Scientists tested the power of the enzyme on lab rats and found that when they blocked the chemical from reaching the brain, it helped to induce sleep.
"Sleep, one of the most mysterious regular shifts in consciousness, is regulated by a delicate balance between biological processes, the environment and behaviour, but the mechanisms involved in the regulation are not well understood," said study author, Dr Subimal Dutta.
"The ultimate goal of my research is to deepen the understanding of how sleep is regulated at the cellular level, which could lead to finding the causes and cures for a variety of sleep disorders."
It could be some time before the powers of the enzyme have been harnessed and bottled so in the meantime, take a look at our expert sleep tips - and if you do manage to get a good night's sleep, find out what your sleep position reveals about your personality, below...
What Your Sleep Position Reveals About You
What Your Sleeping Position Says About Your Personality(01 of07)
Open Image Modal (credit:Alamy)
Foetus (02 of07)
Open Image Modal"Those who curl up in the foetus position are described as tough on the outside but sensitive at heart. They may be shy when they first meet somebody, but soon relax. The foetus is the most common sleeping position, with women more likely to adopt this position than men." (credit:Alamy)
Starfish (03 of07)
Open Image Modal"Lying on your back with both arms up around the pillow. These sleepers make good friends because they are always ready to listen to others, and offer help when needed. They generally don't like to be the centre of attention." (credit:Alamy)
Freefaller (04 of07)
Open Image Modal"Lying on your front with your hands around the pillow, and your head turned to one side. Often gregarious and brash people, but can be nervy and thin-skinned underneath, and don't like criticism, or extreme situations." (credit:Getty Images)
Soldier(05 of07)
Open Image Modal"Lying on your back with both arms pinned to your sides. People who sleep in this position are generally quiet and reserved. They don't like a fuss, but set themselves and others high standards." (credit:Getty Images)
Yearner(06 of07)
Open Image Modal"People who sleep on their side with both arms out in front are said to have an open nature, but can be suspicious, cynical. They are slow to make up their minds, but once they have taken a decision, they are unlikely ever to change it." (credit:Getty Images)
Log (07 of07)
Open Image Modal"Lying on your side with both arms down by your side. These sleepers are easy going, social people who like being part of the in-crowd, and who are trusting of strangers. However, they may be gullible." (credit:Alamy)