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Research : Why do we sleep? What are dreams?

Sleep in mammals has evolved into a complex phenomenon composed of two distinct states, REM (rapid eye movement) sleep and non-REM sleep. REM sleep is the major source of dreams, whereas non-REM sleep is characterized by a synchronous brain activity called slow waves. Little is known, however, about the evolutionary origin or individual roles of these two sleep states. We will address these questions through identification and manipulation of the neurons that function as the REM/non-REM sleep switch using mice.

While REM and non-REM sleep are unique to certain vertebrate species, sleep itself is a widely conserved phenomenon. The nematode Caenorhabditis elegans, with its genetic accessibility and well-defined neural circuit, is a powerful means for neuroscience research. Therefore, our lab also aims to elucidate widely conserved molecular mechanisms underlying sleep using C. elegans.

Joining our Lab

Our lab is interested in the evolution and function of sleep. Currently, our lab has two major themes: 1. elucidation of the individual roles and evolutionary origins of REM and non-REM sleep using mice, and 2. identification of widely conserved molecular mechanisms underlying sleep using the nematode C. elegans. To this end, we will combine pharmacogenetic or optogenetic approaches with behavioral studies, neuronal recording studies, or imaging studies. Lab members are expected to be either familiar with these techniques or highly motivated to acquire them. In addition, to gain a broad insight, we expect that all lab members be engaged in both the mouse and nematode projects.

News

2023.04.26 Awards

Awards

Ms. Ayaka Nakai was awarded the Best Dissertation Award, degree programs in Comprehensive Human Sciences, Graduate School of Comprehensive Human Sciences, University of Tsukuba.

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2023.04.24 Awards

Awards

Ms. Hibiki Okamura, 3rd year student, Ph.D. Program in Humanics, University of Tsukuba, received the Outstanding Oral Presentation Award at the 20th International Mini-symposium on Cell and Molecular Biology. The presentation title is “The analyses of neural basis for individual …

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2023.03.28 Achievement

Achievement

Mr. Taizo Kawano (stuff) published a first author paper in Cell Reports (Cell Press). Title: ER proteostasis regulators cell-non-autonomously control sleep.

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