Subject: Q Science (General)
Year: 2026
Type: Conference or Workshop Item
Type: NonPeerReviewed
Title: SLEEP PHYSIOLOGY
Author: OSMANI, Hana
Author: BELLCHISHTA SHAQIRI, Anila
Abstract: Sleep is a complex and essential biological process that plays a fundamental role in maintaining physical and mental health. This paper provides a comprehensive overview of the physiological mechanisms underlying sleep, including circadian rhythms, sleep homeostasis, sleep stages, neural regulation, and sleep disorders. The circadian rhythm, controlled by the suprachiasmatic nucleus, regulates the sleep–wake cycle in response to environmental light, while sleep homeostasis reflects the body’s need for sleep based on prior wakefulness. Sleep is divided into two main phases: non-rapid eye movement (NREM) and rapid eye movement (REM), which alternate cyclically throughout the night. NREM sleep is primarily associated with physical restoration, whereas REM sleep plays a key role in memory consolidation, emotional processing, and cognitive function. The neural control of sleep involves complex interactions between the hypothalamus, brainstem, thalamus, and cortical networks. Additionally, this paper discusses common sleep disorders such as insomnia, obstructive sleep apnea, narcolepsy, and somnambulism, highlighting their impact on overall health. Understanding sleep physiology is essential for recognizing the importance of sleep and improving approaches to sleep-related disorders.
Publisher:
Relation: https://eprints.unite.edu.mk/2405/
Identifier: oai:eprints.unite.edu.mk:2405
Identifier: https://eprints.unite.edu.mk/2405/1/Proceedings%20Book%202026-405-412.pdfIdentifier: OSMANI, Hana and BELLCHISHTA SHAQIRI, Anila (2026) SLEEP PHYSIOLOGY. In: INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE “FROM RESEARCH TO APPLICATION”, 20 May, 2026.
