Protocol PERCAF 2018

Coffee is the most consumed arousing substance in the world. Caffeine is used as a natural countermeasure to maintain the performance of sleep deprived subjects. However, the effectiveness of caffeine is characterized by a large individual variability, also observed on side effects. This variability could notably be related to polymorphisms of the adenosine receptor 2a gene (ADORA2A) and Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha, a pro-inflammatory cytokine whose increase is observed during sleep deprivation.

This study, under conditions of total sleep deprivation in the laboratory (40 hours of continuous awakening), examine the cross-influence of two polymorphisms (ADORA2A: rs5751876 and TNF-alpha: rs1800629) on the sensitivity to caffeine and on the degradation of attentional performances. Physical performance, mental performance, immuno-inflammatory responses and the occurrence indesirable effects will be evaluate.

This work aims to understand the mechanisms that contribute to increasing individual vulnerability and promoting protective countermeasures. The purpose of this project is to improve the recommendations concerning the daily use of caffeine and during periods of prolonged awakening, particularly in the military environment.