Scientists at Centre for Applied Genomics in Philadelphia, US, discovered that people carrying the gene variant p.Tyr362His were able to function on fewer than five hours of sleep per night.

The researchers studied 100 sets of twins to find out which genetic variants were responsible for changes in sleep patterns.

The study revealed that those with the variant chose to sleep for less time than those without it, and were also far better at mental tasks after being deprived of sleep for 38 hours.

One twin with the gene mutation had 40 percent fewer lapses of performance during 38 hours without sleep and required less recovery sleep afterward sleeping only eight hours after the period of extended sleep deprivation compared with his twin brother, who slept for 9.5 hours.

This study emphasizes that our need for sleep is a biological requirement, not a personal preference, said American Academy of Sleep Medicine President Dr Timothy Morgenthaler.

Most adults need at least seven hours of quality sleep each night for optimal health, productivity and daytime alertness.

Charles Moore, Thatchers official biographer, said it was impossible to know if the former prime minister had a special gene that made her less susceptible to tiredness, but said much of her ability stemmed from a drive to prove herself.

I do not know whether or not she had a gene of this sort. I suppose one would know that only by conducting a genetic test.

I think she found it hard: she wanted to show she didn't need much sleep. In fact, she needed more than she said. It was part of her desire, as the first and only woman, to beat the men.

Though it is true that she could work very long hours and did need less sleep than most of us.

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'Thatcher gene' is key to needing less sleep

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