Are orexins the next golden child of neuroscience?

There are few experiences as beautiful as a good night’s sleep. And in the quest to deliver a healthy eight hours to those struggling with insomnia, pharma has found a host of targets in the brain. There’s often a price to pay, though.

The standard go-tos such as benzodiazepines and GABA-targeting medications like Ambien can trigger groggy hangovers or addiction issues, leaving sleep disorder scientists still on the hunt for the “perfect hypnotic.”

Enter orexins.