Scientists Discover Brain Regions Take Micro-Naps During Wakefulness

New research reveals small brain areas briefly switch between sleep and wake states, challenging traditional views on brain activity.

Researchers from WashU and UCSC found microsecond-long naps in specific brain regions while awake.
These 'flickers' also occur in reverse during sleep, with small areas briefly waking up.
The study utilized advanced neural network analysis on extensive electrophysiology data from mice.
Findings offer potential insights into neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative diseases linked to sleep disturbances.
Published in Nature Neuroscience, the research redefines understanding of sleep and wake states.