Role of NREM and REM Sleep in Visual Perceptual Learning

Abstract

“Why do we sleep?” It is a question that has intrigued researchers for more than a century; however, the exact reason remains enigmatic. A growing body of evidence suggests that sleep plays a vital role in learning and memory. Non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep has been investigated intensively. Several major models elucidating the role of NREM sleep in learning and memory have been proposed, including the active learning consolidation and synaptic homeostatic hypotheses. Nevertheless, the role of REM sleep has remained controversial. In this review, I have discussed recent studies describing the functions of NREM and REM sleep in human visual perceptual learning, demonstrated to represent a type of adult brain plasticity. I have provided novel insights into the mechanisms underlying REM sleep-induced stabilization of visual perceptual learning. I have also highlighted technical advances in human sleep research, including the role of simultaneous magnetic resonance spectroscopy and polysomnography, which facilitate the noninvasive investigation of adult human brain plasticity during sleep.