Scientists have recently discovered a unique garbage-clearing system in our brains. This system becomes more active during sleep and removes all the unwanted things and debris from the brain tissue. Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis have revealed how this system works in a new study. Also, he has stressed the importance of getting at least eight hours of sleep every night.
According to scientists, our brain uses energy and fuel to solve tissue problems and help us remember things. During this process, some types of debris are left behind. When we sleep, a process begins that removes this debris from brain tissue. Neurons use rhythmic waves to help move cerebrospinal fluid through brain tissue, thus flushing out debris along with it. This process is called the glymphatic system. This debris passes out through channels located near the veins.
So, if we want to remove garbage from our minds regularly, we should ensure that we get at least eight hours of sleep every day. In a study recently published in the journal Nature, a research team from the Washington University School of Medicine said that neurons act as key organizers for brainwashing.
How was the study conducted?
Scientists used genetically modified rats for this experiment. These mice were prepared to eliminate neuronal activity so that no waste is formed in the brain tissue. It was observed that slow brain waves were observed in these genetically altered mice, which later disappeared completely. Since the glymphatic system did not activate, fluids were not moved to clear metabolic debris. From this, it became clear that for the self-cleaning cycle of the brain to work, the neurons must be active.
On the other hand, in non-genetically modified mice, faster waves were observed to move fluids to remove metabolic waste. The research team also shed light on why previous studies on the same topic did not produce similar results. In the same study, the research team said that the experimental methods we used here significantly protect the brain parenchyma (the main tissue of the brain) from acute damage, allowing further studies on neurodynamic and brain clearing. Valuable strategies are provided. This discovery further underlines the importance of sleep. Not getting enough sleep will prevent your brain from clearing garbage, which can lead to decreased memory, learning, and problem-solving abilities.
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