Resolving the enigma of Paradoxical sleep: A comprehensive analysis of the microstructure and functions of rapid eye movement (REM) sleep.

Mammalian sleep is divided into two distinctive phases; Non-rapid eye
movement (NREM) and Rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. While a
large body of research has meticulously unraveled the nuanced
microstructure of NREM sleep and its functions, the
microstructure of REM sleep has been comparatively overlooked.
Despite being subdivided into phasic and tonic periods over five
decades ago, REM sleep is still often regarded as a homogeneous state,
neglecting the potential disparities between these distinct REM states.
Moreover, there is a lack of studies that investigate the basic structural
properties of these REM periods as well as their contribution to vital
cognitive functions. This project aims to provide more comprehensive
evidence elucidating the differentiation in brain activity during phasic and
tonic REM sleep as well as their contribution to cognitive functions such
as sensory processing and memory consolidation. We will employ a
multifaceted methodology, integrating various advanced modalities such
as high-density electroencephalography (EEG) and
magnetoencephalography (MEG), providing a nuanced understanding of
the spectral profiles, temporal dynamics, and connectivity patterns
associated with both phasic and tonic REM sleep periods. Additionally,
machine learning algorithms will be applied to discern subtle differences
in information processing capacities and memory consolidation
mechanisms between these distinct REM sleep states. By doing so, we
aim to advance our understanding of the (micro-)structure and functions
of REM sleep, contributing valuable knowledge to the broader scientific
understanding of the complexity of brain activity inherent in this crucial
phase of sleep.