Narcolepsy Nerd Alert: What is Orexin? The Historic Past and Bright Future
In celebration of World Narcolepsy Day, join us for a very special Narcolepsy Nerd Alert with world-renowned sleep researcher and physician, Dr. Emmanuel Mignot! Dr. Mignot, who is recognized for discovering the cause of narcolepsy, will join host Julie Flygare to discuss the story of orexin, recent research findings, orexin agonist treatments in development, and how current and future treatment breakthroughs have the power to transform the lives of millions of people living with narcolepsy.
In 1973, a miniature French poodle named Monique led to the launch of a canine narcolepsy research program at Stanford. Over the next 50 years, a neurotransmitter called orexin would be discovered, linked to narcolepsy in dogs and humans, and studied extensively around the world. Ultimately, the contributions of countless researchers, patients, physicians, and scientists led to the development and FDA approval of an orexin agonist to treat the cause rather than the symptoms of narcolepsy. With this milestone achievement, the remarkable history of orexin shines as an inspiring reminder of the power of collaboration between scientific and patient communities across the globe.
Tune in to Project Sleep’s YouTube channel on Tuesday, September 22, 2026 at 10 a.m. ET. This event will be recorded and available for later viewing.
What is Orexin Featured Guest:
Dr. Emmanuel Mignot, MD, PhD is the Craig Reynolds Professor of Sleep Medicine in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Stanford University and the Director of the Stanford Center for Narcolepsy. He is recognized as having discovered the cause of narcolepsy. Dr. Mignot was born In Paris, France, and he is a former student of the Ecole Normale Superieure (Ulm, Paris, France). He received his M.D. and Ph.D. (molecular pharmacology) from Paris V and VI University respectively. He practiced medicine and Psychiatry in France for several years before serving as a visiting scholar at the Stanford Sleep Disorders Clinic and Research Center. He joined as faculty and Director of the Center for Narcolepsy in 1993. He was named Professor of Psychiatry in 2001. He has received numerous awards for his work and is a member of both the National Academies of Sciences and Medicine.
The What is Orexin broadcast will be recorded on September 22, 2026.
Project Sleep’s live broadcast series Narcolepsy Nerd Alert takes a deeper dive into specific topics related to narcolepsy. Hosted by award-winning geek Julie Flygare, each live event invites fellow #NarcolepsyNerds to explore unique aspects of the narcolepsy experience, contemplate bold questions, and learn from each other.
View all broadcasts and explore upcoming topics on our Narcolepsy Nerd Alert page.
Calling All #NarcolepsyNerds!
Whether you geek out about science, art, advocacy, or pop culture—this community is for you. Please sign up for updates on live broadcasts, video recordings, printable toolkits and exclusive prizes.
More Narcolepsy Nerd Alert Topics
The post Narcolepsy Nerd Alert: What is Orexin? The Historic Past and Bright Future appeared first on Project Sleep.
Läs hela artikeln: Visa original