A thermodynamic model of the REM–NREM sleep cycle

Chaos, Solitons and Fractals. 2025. Vol. 190. Article 115732.

Haeun S., Yurii I., Anatoly K., Zakharov D., Zaikin A.

Although many models explain the spontaneous alternation between two distinct sleep states, Rapid Eye Movement (REM) and Non-Rapid Eye Movement (NREM), new empirical evidence has accumulated regarding consistent temperature changes during sleep stage transitions in small animals. The temperature dependence of neuro-excitability and low-frequency (≤4 Hz) neuronal activity has also been investigated theoretically and experimentally. Based on these phenomena, we constructed a stochastic thermodynamic model of the ultradian sleep rhythm. The model was validated through simulation, demonstrating statistical properties that align with experimental data from rats. This model would provide new insights into the mechanisms behind the REM cycle and can be applied in new therapies for sleep disorders.

Keywords: термодинамика, стохастическая модель, thermodynamics, Stochastic models, Neuronal noise, Sleep stage, Slow wave activity, Biophysical model, нейронный шум, фазы сна, медленная волновая активность, биофизическая модель

Publication based on the results of: Multidisciplinary study of behavior and decision-making in health population and patients using behavioral, economic, neurocognitive, neuroeconomic, neurocomputational and neural network approaches (2025)