Through a detailed analysis of brain circuits in mice, researchers led by a team from the University of California discovered specific mechanisms and feedback loops that regulate the secretion of growth hormone during sleep. These findings may help us better treat conditions associated with sleep problems, including type 2 diabetes and Alzheimer’s disease.
The team added, “We are actually recording the neural activity in mice directly to understand what is happening, providing a fundamental circuit for future work in developing various treatments.” A feedback loop involving neurons in the locus coeruleus, a part of the brain associated with wakefulness, was also found.
Sleep stimulates the secretion of growth hormone, which in turn nourishes the body to regulate wakefulness. This balance is crucial for growth, tissue repair, and metabolic health. In addition to its primary function of promoting growth, growth hormone manages how the body processes glucose and fats. Without the appropriate amount of hormone due to lack of sleep, the risk of obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases may increase.
Silverman stated, “Understanding the neural circuit responsible for growth hormone secretion may eventually lead to new hormone treatments to improve sleep quality or restore the natural balance of growth hormone.”
