Sleep and Genetic Neurodevelopmental Disorders

Sleep is a brain-derived homeostatic process. Neurodevelopmental milestones typically parallel the natural ontogeny of sleep observed in humans. In fact, an early indicator of neurodivergence is commonly abnormal sleep, which may manifest as reduced duration, impaired quality, or inappropriate timing of sleep. Typically, sleep evolves with predictable changes in duration of sleep required in 24 h, progression toward consolidation of nocturnal sleep, entrainment of circadian rhythms, and maturation of ultradian patterns, as a function of age and brain development. Genetically based neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) are providing initial insights to further understanding the relationship between sleep and neurodevelopmental trajectories and how genetics guide these neurodivergent pathways. Recognition and intervention of sleep-wake disorders may benefit developmental trajectories, especially in these high-risk populations.