The cost of wakefulness and the benefits of sleep
Sleep is a basic physiological state universally present in animals. Regular sleep is necessary for optimal performance during wakefulness and even short sleep deprivation leads to sleepiness and cognitive impairment.
LAB OVERVIEW
Our lab investigates the biological mechanisms underpinning the functions of sleep in health and disease. Our research combines morphological and functional methods of analysis in both animals and humans.
RESEARCH QUESTIONS
Sleep disruption is a growing concern in modern societies with profound health impacts. Our organism responds to sleep loss with changes at molecular, biochemical, and functional levels. Initially adaptive, these modifications may, over time, become maladaptive, leading to enduring consequences. Our research is focused on comprehending the short- and long-term effects of sleep disruption at cellular and system levels.
While the precise functions of sleep remain elusive, the undeniable health benefits it offers have sparked significant interest in the development of non-intrusive, drug-free methods for enhancing sleep. Recent research has shown promising results in achieving sleep enhancement through sensory stimulation during sleep, motivating our exploration of the therapeutic potential of these approaches.
TECHNIQUES
• Molecular biology
• In vivo electrophysiology and calcium imaging in freely behaving animals
• Confocal and electron microscopy
• Human electrophysiology and behavior
Laboratory website: https://www.bsr-laboratory.org/
Keywords - ENGLISH
sleep, synapses, myelin, plasticity, brain stimulation, mental health
Active participants in the research line (PI last author or *)
Luisa de Vivo, Michele Bellesi
External Collaborations
University of Oxford; University of Bristol; IMT Lucca; Instituto Neurociencias Alicante; University of Milan
Pillar
Human Health
Macroareas in Human Health
Biology of health and disease
Relevant research grants (national/international) funding specifically this Research Line
Wellcome Trust; Alzheimer's Research UK; BIAL; PRIN; Fondazione Carima
Email Address
michele.bellesi@unicam.it
Link to Relevant Publications