Astrocytes found to directly regulate memory consolidation during sleep

Research has shown that a good night's sleep has many benefits, including memory consolidation. How sleep enables the brain to strengthen memories is still not completely understood, but a new study published in Neuron reveals how astrocytes, brain cells known for supporting neurons and their functions, can directly regulate brain circuits involved in memory consolidation.

The work, conducted by researchers at Baylor College of Medicine and collaborating institutions, may have implications for epilepsy, Alzheimer's disease and other disorders associated with memory problems. Furthermore, the findings provide evidence that astrocytes are much more than support cells for neurons – they also seem to directly regulate brain function.

Astrocytes have been implicated in learning and memory and in sleep regulation. In the current study, we investigated how their roles in sleep facilitate the storage of memories."

Dr. Benjamin Deneen, corresponding author, professor and Dr. Russell J. and Marian K. Blattner Chair in the Department of Neurosurgery and director of the Center for Cancer Neuroscience, Baylor