The importance of sleep

We spend one-third of our lives asleep. But while we drift off into the land of dreams, our brains are very busy.

Nerves within the brain are constantly creating new proteins, with each protein having a specific function. But these proteins only do their job properly if they are folded correctly – a bit like a paper aeroplane only flies well if you fold it a certain way.

Dr Atreyi Chakrabarty, from the Department of Pharmacology, explains that if the cell environment isn’t just right, cells can become stressed and proteins don’t fold properly. It’s thought that unfolded proteins might contribute to the development of neurological diseases, such as Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s disease.

So, how can sleep help to maintain healthy brain functions? Find out in our latest video!

Written by: Dr Fiona Suttle and Dr Atreyi Chakrabarty
Edited by: Rob Key

[almostnospecifics]

Such a clearly explained video! Thanks Atreyi. I always wondered what was going on during sleep to help the brain. I never knew that our brains get a good wash and clear out whilst we sleep, so that was really interesting to learn! Will enjoy my sleep even more now!

[ranjitballal]

Would you say that when we are dreaming the brain is active? If it is, does it mean one has missed out on the sleep irrespective of a good or a bad dream?

[Asma-eumj]

What are the causes of excessive
Sleep?