Introducing the brain:during sleep waves of fluid clean it (Introduction)

by David Turell , Saturday, March 09, 2024, 16:48 (257 days ago) @ David Turell

Movements of cerebrospinal fluid moved by neurons:

https://www.sciencealert.com/hidden-waves-wash-fluid-through-the-brain-while-you-sleep?...

"The brain produces these waste substances as it expends energy and sucks up nutrients during the day. Taking out the trash is the job of the glymphatic system, however we don't yet have a full picture of how this network of drainage channels functions.

"Researchers from Washington University in St Louis observed neurons coordinating electrical signals in mice. These signals generated rhythmic waves, which then helped to wash fluid through the brain, cleaning it up along the way.

"Disabling specific regions in the mice brains prevented the flow of cerebrospinal fluid, showing that the brain wave patterns produced by the neurons were an essential part of the brain-cleaning process.

"We already know that there are oscillating brain waves passing through our heads while we sleep, linked to everything from cognitive processes to consolidating memories. This new study suggests these patterns play a big role in tidying up the brain, too.

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"'These neurons are miniature pumps," says neuroscientist Li-Feng Jiang-Xie, from Washington University in St Louis. "Synchronized neural activity powers fluid flow and removal of debris from the brain."

"'If we can build on this process, there is the possibility of delaying or even preventing neurological diseases, including Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease."

"The team found that taller brain waves, with more amplitude, were more forceful at moving fluid around. It's possible that the brain cleans itself a bit like we might wash dishes: using broad strokes and then extra force to get rid of waste that's more difficult to shift."

Comment: although the article doesn't mention it the waste material is probably picked up by the brain's lymphatic system, delivered to circulatory blood and then to the kidneys.