Mesmerizing Video Shows Waves of Spinal Fluid Washing Over The Brain During Sleep

Science Alert  November 11, 2019
Previous studies have suggested that cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is important for waste removal in the brain. A team of researchers in the US (Boston University, Massachusetts general Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center) has now observed this pulsing action. In combination with the slow wave brain activity (which is partly for fixing our memories in place) and the decrease in blood flow that happens while we sleep, these CSF waves look to be washing out unnecessary proteins and other redundant debris. As slow brain wave frequency drops as we get older, the new study could help with research into normal age-related problems, along with specific disorders. It is not clear how CSF, brain waves and blood flow are getting into sync so effectively…read more. Open Access TECHNICAL ARTICLE

Credit: Laura Lewis/Boston University

Posted in Neuroscience.

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