10 Interesting Things The Big Bang Theory Taught Us About Science

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3. The Risk Of Losing Sleep

In episode 14 of season 3 Sheldon begins to slowly be driven mad as he abandons all to figure out a problem he can't seem to grasp. Bernadette has the smart idea to ask Sheldon what exactly happens to his brain when he doesn't spend enough time in REM sleep. His response: that his neuroreceptors lose their sensitivity to serotonin and norepinephrine leading to impaired cognitive function. In other words €“ he cannot focus on his work. Yes, we all know that this happens due to lack of sleep but did we all understand why? Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that has been linked to feelings of happiness. Norepinephrine doubles as both a neurotransmitter and a hormone that, along with dopamine, is necessary for alertness. Both of these neurotransmitters have been linked to depression and anxiety and these are symptoms of lack of sleep. Research has shown that REM sleep is important for the consolidation of memories and stimulation of the central nervous system. Without it the CNS begins to slowly break down causing neuroreceptors to become incapable of receiving messages. This in turn causes individuals to act slowly and lose focus. Individuals with depression are often fatigued and have difficulty concentrating. They tend to sleep a lot more than those who don't suffer from depression and yet don't receive as much relief from doing so. This is because of the effects of serotonin deprivation €“ those who lack REM sleep lack normal levels of serotonin and therefore experience the very same symptoms. However, those with depression cannot have their issues fixed simply by sleeping as the troubles are biochemical by nature.