Overview
- A large-scale study of more than 1,000 arousals used high-density EEG to reveal a consistent activation wave moving from frontal and central regions to the visual cortex at wake onset.
- Awakenings from NREM sleep exhibit a brief slow-wave surge before transitioning to fast, wake-like activity, whereas REM awakenings bypass slow waves and shift directly to fast oscillations.
- The occurrence of specific slow waves immediately before awakening correlates with higher subjective alertness and may explain variations in sleep inertia.
- Using 256-sensor EEG and source modeling, researchers achieved second-by-second mapping of awakening dynamics, capturing precise timing and location of cortical activation.
- Investigators are now comparing these normal awakening signatures with patterns in insomnia and other sleep disorders to develop targeted intervention strategies.