Scientists may have found a reason for infant death syndrome (SIDS): researchers have discovered that the bodies of infants have abnormalities in the serotonin 2A/C receptors, which are responsible for sleep functions. The study, published in the Journal of Neuropathology & Experimental Neurology, examined the biological disorders in the bodies of 70 babies who died from the syndrome.

Crib death is a phenomenon in which an apparently healthy baby dies suddenly, usually in the first year of life. According to the data in the USA, out of about one hundred thousand babies, about 103 of them will die from the syndrome. According to the Ministry of Health, in Israel every year 45 babies die from the syndrome.

Meanwhile, the researchers believe that the syndrome is the result of an abnormal receptor, developmental timings and external stressors. The baby is at risk of SIDS, when his heart and respiratory system has not fully developed, and he has a biological abnormality, or he sleeps in a way that creates external pressure. According to the researchers, "the presented result is based on our previous research. The laboratories showed abnormalities in the serotonergic system of some of the babies who died from SIDS."

One of the researchers emphasized that "Although we identified abnormalities in the serotonin 2A/C receptor, the relationship between the abnormalities and the cause of death remains to be known. Much work remains to be done in determining the outcome of receptor abnormalities. However, at present, we have no means of identifying infants with biological disorders of the serotonergic system. Therefore, Adherence to safe sleep practices remains critical."

How can it be avoided?
The Ministry of Health has published a guide for parents to keep their babies safe from SIDS. The office recommends placing babies on their backs when going to sleep, on a hard mattress. The babies should sleep in the parents' room until they are six months old, although the office emphasizes that it is better until they are one year old. The instructor insists that the bed be completely empty, including pillows and toys. The baby's head should be completely exposed, and if a blanket is used, it should be placed under the mattress at armpit level.