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Neurobiology of Wakefulness

Meaning

The Neurobiology of Wakefulness is the complex study of the neural circuits, neurotransmitters, and regulatory peptides in the central nervous system that maintain the state of consciousness, alertness, and cognitive engagement. This state is actively maintained by a network of ascending arousal systems originating in the brainstem and hypothalamus, which suppress sleep-promoting nuclei. Understanding this neurobiological foundation is crucial for addressing disorders of fatigue, attention, and circadian rhythm, which are often intimately linked with hormonal dysregulation.