Neurons assist in the removal of waste from brain during sleep
Scientists at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis have found that brain waves help flush waste out of the waste during sleep. Individual nerve cells coordinate to produce rhythmic waves that propel fluid through dense brain tissue, washing the tissue in the process.
During sleep, when the body is at rest, the brain cells produce bursts of electrical pulses that cumulate into rhythmic waves -- a sign of heightened brain cell function. Cerebrospinal fluid surrounding the brain enters and weaves through intricate cellular webs, collecting toxic waste as it travels. Upon exiting the brain, the contaminated fluid must pass through a barrier before spilling into the lymphatic vessels in the dura mater -- the outer tissue layer enveloping the brain underneath the skull.
"The neurons are miniature pumps. Synchronized neural activity powers fluid flow and removal of debris from the brain," explained first author Li-Feng Jiang-Xie, PhD, a postdoctoral research associate in the Department of Pathology & Immunology. "If we can build on this process, there is the possibility of delaying or even preventing neurological diseases, including Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease, in which excess waste -- such as metabolic waste and junk proteins -- accumulate in the brain and lead to neurodegeneration."
Disclaimer: This website is primarily for healthcare professionals. The content here does not replace medical advice and should not be used as medical, diagnostic, endorsement, treatment, or prescription advice. Medical science evolves rapidly, and we strive to keep our information current. If you find any discrepancies, please contact us at corrections@medicaldialogues.in. Read our Correction Policy here. Nothing here should be used as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We do not endorse any healthcare advice that contradicts a physician's guidance. Use of this site is subject to our Terms of Use, Privacy Policy, and Advertisement Policy. For more details, read our Full Disclaimer here.
NOTE: Join us in combating medical misinformation. If you encounter a questionable health, medical, or medical education claim, email us at factcheck@medicaldialogues.in for evaluation.