How stress activates neurons that disrupt sleep

New research reveals that neurons in the preoptic hypothalamus -- the region of the brain that regulates sleep and body temperature -- are rhythmically activated during non-rapid eye movement sleep (NREM). Stress activates these brain cells out of turn, causing 'microarousals,' that interrupt sleep cycles and decrease the duration of sleep episodes, according to new research.

New research reveals that neurons in the preoptic hypothalamus -- the region of the brain that regulates sleep and body temperature -- are rhythmically activated during non-rapid eye movement sleep (NREM). Stress activates these brain cells out of turn, causing 'microarousals,' that interrupt sleep cycles and decrease the duration of sleep episodes, according to new research.

Read more https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2023/12/231213112438.htm