Close window Published online: 28 January 2007; | doi:10.1038/news070122-13 One sleep disorder throws light on anotherTreatment based on narcolepsy could promote sleep in insomniacs.Heidi Ledford Drug companies compete hotly to make the next big sleeping pill. Punchstock By learning from patients who nod off unexpectedly during the day, researchers have pinpointed a chemical that could help people who can't sleep at night. One out of every 10 people in the United States suffers from chronic insomnia, making for a big sleeping-pill market. The most popular pills work by strengthening the effects of a brain chemical that slows the nervous...