Neurobiology of the Suprachiasmatic Nucleus
A remarkable article by Dr Yildiz titled Sleep Regulation: Neurobiology of the Suprachiasmatic Nucleus explains how the brain regulates circadian rhythms and whether a literal “clock” exists within it in simple terms based on experience and research.
Sleep is the cornerstone of human and organismal well-being, highlighted in my previous health and cognitive function stories. Without sleep, rest, and downtime, the brain’s vitality wanes. Nonetheless, in our contemporary era, there is a trend where some people shun sleep, resorting to alertness aids in pursuit of heightened productivity. I have compassion for millions of people who experience sleep deprivation, as I also struggled with it, causing severe health issues in my younger years.
Various neurotransmitters, such as glutamate and GABA, and neuropeptides, like vasopressin and vasoactive intestinal peptide, play essential roles in SCN function. These neurotransmitters help regulate the timing and coordination of SCN activity.
The retinohypothalamic tract (RHT) receives direct inputs from light-sensitive ganglion cells in the retina. It secretes glutamate into the core VIP regions of the SCN, regulating circadian rhythmicity.
Another neurotransmitter, pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP), found in retinal ganglion cells, helps relay light information and enhances glutamate’s action on the SCN.
The geniculohypothalamic tract (GHT) provides a secondary, indirect photic input mediated by various stimuli. In the SCN, GHT and RHT overlap in their innervation. GHT neurotransmitters include neuropeptide Y (NPY), GABA, and enkephalin (ENK).
You can read this insightful and comprehensive article via the link below if you want to improve your sleep.
He also simplified it in a new story:
Nuances of SCN, Circadian Rhythm, and Awareness of Key Biochemicals for Sleep Regulation
It is about understanding our body’s internal clock related to environmental factors (light/darkness) & the impact of hormones and neurotransmitters is critical to having a restful night’s sleep.
Although all cells, tissues, organs, and systems contribute to regulating sleep, the brain and nervous system play the most critical role. To effectively regulate sleep, the brain requires a balance of both stimulation and rest. I discussed these details further in the following two stories.
Related these two key processes I detailed the practical tips in the following stories.
Here’s How I Train My Brain Daily for Mental Clarity and Intellectual Productivity.
Here’s How to Make the Nervous System More Flexible and Functional
More stories like this are in this collection. If you wish, you may subscribe to his Health and Wellness newsletter to benefit from my decades of health, science, and technology experience.
He invites you to check out β-Hydroxybutyrate: 2 Vital Role of Ketogenesis in the Brain for Dementia Prevention / Treatment. This information can be a lifesaver for some people suffering from cognitive decline. As an elderly my favourite story by Dr Mehmet: Six Tips for a Youthful and Healthy Life as We Age.
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Prominent References from Medium.com
Neurobiology of the Suprachiasmatic Nucleus by Dr Mehmet Yildiz
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