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Session Schedule

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0:00:00
Introduction

0:01:10
Mapping the neurophysiological correlates of dreams in sleep
Francesca Siclari (Netherlands)

0:26:35
Neural network models of hippocampal computations during sleep
Louis Kang (Japan)

0:49:55
Sodium leak channel uncovers the molecular mechanism regulating REM sleep and the function of REM sleep
Hiromasa Funato (Japan)

1:10:40
Regulation of REM Sleep-Mediated Stress Responses by the Immune-Neuron Axis
Liping Wang (China)

Summary

Dreaming is a fundamental cognitive process that has captivated human curiosity throughout history. Despite its significance, neuroscientific understanding of dreaming remains incomplete. While closely associated with REM sleep, dreaming extends beyond it, presenting an intricate and multifaceted phenomenon. Recent advancements in REM sleep research, particularly in its mechanisms and functions related to information processing, have revitalized the field. Furthermore, the emergence of dream studies in model organisms opens new avenues for exploration. This symposium aims to synthesize current knowledge of REM sleep and its connection to dreaming, with a focus on mechanisms, functions, and methodologies to advance our understanding of this enigmatic process. The first speaker, Dr. Francesca Siclari (Group Leader, Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, Netherlands), will present her research on the neurophysiological correlates of dreams and other mental activities during sleep. She will discuss advanced techniques that map regional brain activity with high spatial resolution under physiological and pathological conditions. The second speaker, Dr. Louis Kang (Unit Leader, RIKEN Center for Brain Science, Japan), will explore the different computational roles of slow-wave sleep and REM sleep towards learning and memory, drawing on neural network models of the hippocampal region. Dr. Hiromasa Funato (Professor, Tohoi University, Japan) will present findings on the REM sleep-regulating gene NALCN, its molecular pathway, and its impact on brain waves during REM sleep and memory. Lastly, Dr. Liping Wang (Director/Principal Investigator, Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute, China) will discuss his research on the relationship between REM sleep and defensive behavior. Together, these four speakers will provide a comprehensive exploration of the mechanisms and functions of dreaming, spanning human, theoretical, and animal model studies. The inclusion of cutting-edge research using mice models by Dr. Funato and Dr. Wang highlights the molecular and behavioral insights that animal studies contribute to our understanding of REM sleep and dreaming. Given the strong association between REM sleep disruption and psychological disorders, particularly those involving cognitive dysfunction, this symposium promises to engage a broad audience, from basic scientists to clinical practitioners.

Learning Objectives:

Upon completion of this CME activity, participants will be able to:
• Identify the neurophysiological correlates of dreaming and describe how advanced brain mapping techniques reveal the dynamics of regional brain activity during sleep, including pathological conditions
• Appreciate the computational roles of replay and dreams and speculate upon how they may be implemented by neural circuits in the hippocampus
• Understand the underlying mechanisms regulating REM sleep and the function of REM sleep related to memory
• Explain the role of REM sleep in modulating defensive behaviors, describe experimental findings from animal models that connect REM sleep to behavioral outcomes, and elucidate how brain-body interactions influence the coordination of REM sleep, stress, and defensive responses