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The biological clock tells our body to prepare for sleep, for example by lowering the body temperature or by producing melatonin, a hormone that promotes sleep.
A significant discovery in the process of understanding the mechanism of sleep offers new perspectives for the treatment of sleep disorders. Thus, a new study conducted by the McGill University Health Center Research Institute could lead to better treatment of sleep disorders and neurological conditions.
Human sleep occurs in a precise sequence of non-REM and REM stages, each performing distinct physiological functions. REM sleep plays an essential role in memory consolidation and emotional regulation. Non-REM sleep supports the physical processes of recovery and restoration.
Why do we need REM sleep?
The McGill team identified the MT1 melatonin receptor as an essential regulator of REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep.
REM sleep is essential for dreaming, memory consolidation and emotional regulation. In the brain, the MT1 melatonin receptor has an effect on a type of neuron that synthesizes the neurotransmitter and hormone noradrenaline, located in an area known as the locus coeruleus (blue spot). During REM sleep, these neurons quiet down and stop their activity.
Serious conditions such as Parkinson’s disease and dementia with Lewy bodies – for which there are currently no effective treatments – are associated with interruptions in REM sleep.
“This discovery is not only a step forward for understanding the mechanisms of sleep, but also has significant clinical potential,” Gabriella Gobbi, lead researcher on the new study published in a statement, said in a statement. Journal of Neuroscienceprofessor of psychiatry at McGill University in Canada.
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Interruptions of this cycle can affect cognitive function and increase vulnerability to neuropsychiatric diseases.
Until now, scientists have not been able to identify the specific receptor that triggers REM sleep. But the new study identified the MT1 melatonin receptor as an important regulator of this stage of sleep.
Hypnotic drugs can adversely affect REM sleep
Using a new drug that targets MT1 receptors, researchers were able to increase the duration of REM sleep in laboratory animals while simultaneously reducing neuronal activity.
“Currently, there are no drugs that specifically target REM sleep. Most of the hypnotic drugs on the market, although they prolong the total duration of sleep, tend to negatively affect REM sleep”, stated Dr. Stefano Comai, professor at the University of Padua and teaching staff at the Canadian McGill University, according to the source quoted by 360medical.ro.
Fruits that contain melatonin
But there are some foods that can reset your sleep cycle. These include cherries, sour cherries, bananas, almonds, oatmeal. Cherries are one of the best sources of melatonin.
Bananas also contain melatonin. Eating them as an evening snack can help you relax and prepare for bed.
Almonds can also be called an ideal source of melatonin. They also contain a large amount of magnesium, which relaxes the muscles. A small amount of almonds before bed can be beneficial.
Oats are an excellent source of carbohydrates and melatonin. Eating oatmeal before bed can help create an environment conducive to falling asleep.
Source: www.doctorulzilei.ro
