Tunde Hajnik

In our laboratory, we study sleep-wake regulatory systems by complex methodological approach, with special regard to the role of the dopaminergic system among the ascending activating systems. We perform our experiments on awake, free-moving and anesthetized rats using combined electrophysiological and anatomical methods, which are often supplemented with pharmacological and behavioral studies.

Keywords

sleep-wake cycle, Electrophysiology, ascending activating systems, dopaminerg system

Regulation of the neuronal synchronization mechanisms

Slow cortical rhythm is a characteristic EEG pattern generated in the cerebral cortex. It is present both in vitro and in vivo (under anesthesia or during slow-wave sleep). By studying this phenomenon we can get closer to understanding the function of sleep and the mechanisms of information processing during sleep. In our experiments we try to explore the mechanisms behind slow cortical rhythm, the rhythm-generating cortical neurons and their function, and the relationship of this rhythm to the sensory information processing and the homeostatic sleep regulation.

Keywords

slow cortical rhythm, sleep, information processing, EEG

Circadian rhythm and its relationship to sleep

In our chronic laboratory we are equipped to study the mechanisms regulating the circadian rhythm and its relationship to sleep.

Keywords

Circadian rhythm, sleep