The role of subiculum in sleep-wake regulation

Why do we sleep, and how does the brain switch between being awake and asleep? Although we know that certain brain areas are involved in regulating sleep and wakefulness, many of the underlying processes remain unclear. In this project, we aim to better understand how a part of the brain called the ventral subiculum, located within the hippocampal formation, contributes to these processes. The subiculum acts as a bridge between different brain regions and has been shown to affect memory, emotions, and stress. Recent findings, including our own preliminary data, suggest that it may also help control when we are awake or asleep, by influencing other brain areas. In particular, we are interested in a type of brain cell in this region called somatostatin- expressing neurons. To study the function of these specific cells in ventral subiculum, we will use advanced methods to selectively activate or silence these neurons in freely moving mice. We will also monitor their brain activity using miniature electrodes and analyze changes in sleep-wake patterns. Some of these neurons send signals to far-away brain areas. We will test whether these "long-range projecting neurons" are responsible for regulating sleep across the brain. We will also use a computer-based brain model to simulate the impact of the subiculum on sleep-related networks. This approach will help us understand how changes in the subiculum affect the balance between sleep-promoting and wake-promoting brain regions. By identifying how this lesser-known brain region influences sleep, our research could improve our understanding of sleep disorders and lead to new treatment options in the future.