Dreaming reflects neural resynchronization after sleep-dependent neuroplastic adaptations.

Dreaming, Vol 33(4), Dec 2023, 421-433; doi:10.1037/drm0000250Synchronous and coordinated neural electrical activity is essential for proper mental functioning in the wake state. Sleep-dependent neuroplastic repair and adaptation that occur because of oxidative damage, inflammation, learning, and memory formation fostered by wake state experiences alter the finely tuned electrical activity of neurons. Resynchronization after neuroplastic repair and adaptation, but before waking, is needed to redress such adverse effects. These circuit-specific resynchronizations restore the unique sequential activity patterns needed for the diversity of mental functions. Dreaming is the result of neural circuit activations during sleep as part of resynchronization processes. Dream content is explained by the information load of neural circuits that underwent extensive neuroplastic repair and adaptation and that were activated during resynchronization. Neural circuit activation sequences and their combinations during resynchronization determine the narratives and bizarreness of dreams. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2023 APA, all rights reserved)
Source: Dreaming - Category: Psychiatry & Psychology Source Type: research