Abstract | A physiologically based mathematical model of the human sleep/wake system is presented that improves upon previously established models. Our approach is to use the known properties of the neurotransmitters associated with wake and sleep, and the regions of the brain in which they function, to derive the model. Specifically, we use neurochemical interactions in the VLPO, eVLPO and ascending arousal system (brainstem, hypothalamus, basal forebrain and ventral tegmental area) to determine the dynamics. Also used are mechanisms of neuron function and chemical kinetic reactions. It is through studying the neurochemical inner-workings of mammalian sleep/wake cycles that we hope to obtain a physiological realistic human sleep/wake cycle model, and from this gain further insight into the elusive function of sleep. |