Locus Coeruleus: Brain's Sleep Cycle Regulator Unveiled

Researchers at the University of Lausanne have discovered that the brain's locus coeruleus (LC) plays a crucial role in regulating sleep transitions between NREM and REM states. The LC's fluctuating activity acts like a clock, with peaks and troughs influencing sleep cycles. Stress can disrupt LC activity, leading to fragmented sleep and delayed REM onset, linking it to sleep disorders. This study offers potential new treatments and biomarkers for sleep disturbances, particularly in conditions like anxiety and insomnia.