"If the main function of sleep is to take out our neural trash, that insight could eventually enable a new understanding of both neurodegenerative diseases and regular, age-related cognitive decline."
— Konnikova, Maria (b. 1984)
Author
Date
January 11, 2014
Metaphor
"If the main function of sleep is to take out our neural trash, that insight could eventually enable a new understanding of both neurodegenerative diseases and regular, age-related cognitive decline."
Metaphor in Context
There is, however, reason to hope. If the main function of sleep is to take out our neural trash, that insight could eventually enable a new understanding of both neurodegenerative diseases and regular, age-related cognitive decline. By developing a diagnostic test to measure how well the glymphatic system functions, we could move one step closer to predicting someone's risk of developing conditions like Alzheimer's or other forms of dementia: The faster the fluids clear the decks, the more effectively the brain's metabolism is functioning.
Categories
Provenance
Reading
Citation
Maria Konnikova, "Good Night. Sleep Clean." New York Times (January 11, 2014). <Link to NYTimes.com>
Date of Entry
01/12/2014
