Prof. Ted Abel’s session focused on the critical role of sleep in memory consolidation and how sleep deprivation disrupts key molecular processes. He explained how multiple waves of PKA activity and CREB phosphorylation contribute to memory storage and described how hippocampal reactivation during sleep is crucial for processing memories. His research demonstrated that targeted memory reactivation during sleep enhances retention, whereas sleep deprivation impairs this process by altering transcription and translation. Using spatial transcriptomics, his team mapped region-specific gene expression changes after sleep loss, providing insights into the molecular impact of sleep deprivation on brain function. He also discussed ongoing research into chronic sleep restriction and its effects on neurodegenerative disorders.
Title: The Role of Sleep in Memory Storage
Speakers: Professor Ted Abel (Director, Iowa Neuroscience Institute; Chair, Department of Neuroscience & Pharmacology; Roy J. Carver Chair in Neuroscience Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, United States)
Venue: Seminar Hall B, Ground floor, Biosciences and Bioengineering Department, IIT Bombay.
Date: Thursday, 31 January 2025.
Time: 10:30 AM