In contrast to the dormancy of the body during sleep, neuronal networks in the brain exhibit complex patterns of activity that are important for the consolidation of memories of specific events experienced in the preceding day(s). In this podcast I talk with professor Antoine Adamantidis at the University of Bern in Switzerland whose laboratory is revealing the nature of the activities of individual neurons and neuronal networks during sleep – wake cycles. Using cutting-edge “optogenetic” technology his research has established the critical roles of neuron located in the hypothalamus and other brain regions in the control of sleep states and in the consolidation of memories. This research is leading to new approaches for improving sleep quality in ways that enhance daytime cognitive function, reduce the risk of psychiatric and age-related brain disorders, and improve recovery from a stroke or traumatic brain injury.
Recent publications of Professor Adamantidis:
Sleep and eating behavior:
https://www-clinicalkey-com.proxy1.library.jhu.edu/service/content/pdf/watermarked/1-s2.0-S0166223621001831.pdf?locale=en_US&searchIndex=
Narcolepsy:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7215265/pdf/zsz296.pdf
Decoupling of cell body and dendrites during REM sleep:
https://www-science-org.proxy1.library.jhu.edu/doi/epdf/10.1126/science.abk2734
Review articles on sleep:
https://www-annualreviews-org.proxy1.library.jhu.edu/doi/pdf/10.1146/annurev-psych-010419-050815
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4286245/pdf/nihms648813.pdf
