Researchers at the University of California, Berkeley, have investigated how the brain regulates the release of growth hormone during sleep.
The study, published in the journal Cell, is based on experiments conducted in mice.
Scientists have long known that the body releases the highest levels of growth hormone during deep sleep.
However, they did not previously understand exactly how the brain controls this process.
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Growth hormone is important for everyone
Growth hormone is not only essential for children.
In adults, it helps repair muscles and tissues, supports the immune system, and regulates the body’s fat metabolism.
According to the study, specific nerve cells in the brain become active during deep sleep and trigger the release of growth hormone.
The researchers also found that the hormone subsequently sends signals back to the brain, helping prepare the body to wake up.
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What does this mean for the future?
The researchers emphasize that the study was conducted in mice.
As a result, the findings cannot be directly applied to humans. The study also does not demonstrate that any specific treatment can improve sleep or increase growth hormone levels.
According to the researchers, the discovery could lay the foundation for future research into sleep disorders and the development of new treatment options.
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