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Molecular Correlates Wakefulness

Meaning

Molecular Correlates Wakefulness refers to the specific, measurable changes in gene expression, protein activity, and circulating metabolite concentrations that are characteristic of the brain and body’s state of alertness and cognitive activity. These biochemical markers, which include certain neuropeptides, neurotransmitter levels, and immediate early genes, are distinct from those observed during sleep. Monitoring these correlates provides a precise, objective measure of the physiological state of wakefulness and its associated metabolic demands. The presence of these correlates confirms the active engagement of cognitive and somatic systems.