The Effect of Sleep Deprivation on Immune System Function in Adults

Abstract

Background: Sleep is a fundamental biological process essential for
maintaining overall health. Chronic sleep deprivation has been associated with
a variety of health concerns, including impaired immune system function. This
study aimed to evaluate the impact of sleep deprivation on immune system
parameters in adults, including cytokine levels, leukocyte activity, and immune
response efficiency.
Methods: A controlled observational study was conducted with 120 healthy
adult participants (aged 20–45 years) who were subjected to two conditions:
normal sleep (7–8 hours per night) and restricted sleep (≤4 hours per night)
over a two-week period. Immunological assessments included measurements of
pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, TNF-α), leukocyte counts, and natural killer
(NK) cell activity. Statistical analyses were performed to identify significant
changes between groups.
Results: Sleep-deprived participants demonstrated a 35% increase in
circulating pro-inflammatory cytokines (p < 0.001) and a 20% reduction in NK
cell activity (p = 0.002) compared to the control group. Total leukocyte counts
increased significantly (p = 0.01), indicative of heightened inflammatory
responses. Sleep deprivation also impaired vaccine efficacy, with reduced
seroconversion rates following influenza vaccination (45% vs. 78% in the
control group, p < 0.05).
Conclusion: Sleep deprivation adversely affects immune system function by
increasing pro-inflammatory cytokine levels, reducing NK cell activity, and
impairing adaptive immune responses. Prioritizing adequate sleep is critical for
maintaining immune competence, particularly in populations at risk for
infections or chronic inflammatory conditions.