CAENORHABDITIS ELEGANS IN SLEEP RESEARCH: COCOA AS A POTENTIAL MODULATOR IN KLEINE- LEVIN SYNDROME

Martínez León Laura Rocio and Sánchez Mora Ruth Mélida*

Kleine-Levin Syndrome (KLS) is a rare sleep disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of hypersomnia and behavioral disturbances. Its etiology remains unclear, and the lack of long- term effective treatments has driven the search for experimental models to elucidate its underlying pathophysiology and assess novel therapies. Among such models, Caenorhabditis elegans stands out due to its simple nervous system, short life cycle, and sleep-like behavioral states. In addition, cacao, rich in polyphenols and methylxanthines, has been shown to positively influence brain function and synaptic plasticity, suggesting a potential modulatory role in sleep disturbances. This review discusses the characteristics of KLS, the advantages of using C. elegans as a study model, and the possible role of cacao as a neurological modulator, proposing new therapeutic perspectives.