positive regulation of circadian sleep/wake cycle, non-REM sleep

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

Any process that activates or increases the duration or quality of non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep. [GOC:go_curators]

The positive regulation of the circadian sleep/wake cycle, specifically non-REM sleep, is a complex biological process involving a coordinated interplay of various molecular mechanisms. It entails the enhancement or activation of cellular processes that promote the transition into and maintenance of non-REM sleep, aligning with the body's internal biological clock. This regulation encompasses a multitude of factors, including:

- **Circadian Rhythms:** The central circadian pacemaker, located in the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) of the hypothalamus, generates a roughly 24-hour rhythm that influences sleep-wake cycles. The SCN receives light cues from the environment, synchronizing its output with the external day-night cycle. This rhythmic activity is transmitted to various peripheral oscillators throughout the body, influencing diverse physiological processes, including sleep regulation.

- **Neurotransmitter Signaling:** Neurotransmitters play a crucial role in the modulation of sleep. Key players include:
- **Melatonin:** Synthesized by the pineal gland, melatonin levels increase in the evening, promoting sleep onset and duration.
- **GABA:** A major inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain, GABA promotes relaxation and sleepiness by reducing neuronal activity.
- **Serotonin:** Although known for its mood-regulating properties, serotonin also plays a role in sleep-wake regulation.
- **Histamine:** While histamine is associated with wakefulness, its suppression contributes to sleep initiation.

- **Hormonal Influences:** Hormones contribute to sleep regulation, with notable examples being:
- **Cortisol:** A stress hormone, cortisol levels typically peak in the morning, promoting wakefulness, and decline in the evening.
- **Growth Hormone:** Released during sleep, growth hormone plays a crucial role in tissue repair and development.

- **Sleep-Promoting Factors:** Specific sleep-promoting factors contribute to the initiation and maintenance of non-REM sleep, including:
- **Adenosine:** As neurons become active, adenosine accumulates in the brain, promoting sleepiness.
- **Prostaglandins:** These lipid molecules influence sleep regulation, with some promoting sleepiness.

- **Molecular Mechanisms:** At the molecular level, various signaling pathways and gene expression changes underlie the regulation of non-REM sleep. This includes the involvement of:
- **CLOCK and BMAL1:** These transcription factors drive the circadian clock, regulating the expression of other genes involved in sleep regulation.
- **PER and CRY:** These proteins feedback on CLOCK and BMAL1, modulating their activity and thus influencing circadian rhythms.

- **Homeostatic Regulation:** Sleep drive, reflecting the accumulated need for sleep, influences the duration and intensity of non-REM sleep. This drive is influenced by factors such as sleep deprivation and wakefulness duration.

Overall, the positive regulation of the circadian sleep/wake cycle, non-REM sleep, involves a complex interplay of neural, hormonal, and molecular mechanisms. This intricate system ensures that sleep occurs in a rhythmic manner, synchronized with the external environment, contributing to overall health and well-being.'
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Proteins (1)

Compounds (22)