Pulling All Nighters and How it Affects the Brain

We've all done it at least once, and for some of us-probably more than we like to remember. What are we referring to? Pulling an all-nighter. And whether it's a last minute study session for your Chemistry exam or a holiday bar-crawl with friends, not getting much or any sleep can have a serious impact on the brain.

In fact, according to a recent study, Swedish researchers from Uppsala University found that staying awake all night creates changes in the brain that are actually comparable to those that happen after a blow to the head.

Researchers found that one night of sleep deprivation caused a spike in morning blood concentrations of NSE and S-100B in healthy young men. The level in these molecules after sleep deprivation are not as high as the levels after head  injuries, according to researchers. However, they are still significant enough to cause concern.

"We observed that a night of total sleep loss was followed by increased blood concentrations of NSE and S-100B. These brain molecules typically rise in blood under conditions of brain damage. Thus, our results indicate that a lack of sleep may promote neurodegenerative processes," lead researcher Christian Benedict at the Department of Neuroscience, Uppsala University said, via a press release.

The study shows that the brain works to clear itself of toxic substances, and NSE and S-100B increase in response to these substances. Researchers said the new study supports previous findings that the brain flushes out toxins during sleep as researchers believe that the latest findings may support previous research linking to lack of sleep and an increased risk of Alzheimer's, Parkinson's and multiple sclerosis (MS), as well as other health issues.

"In conclusion, the findings of our trial indicate that a good night's sleep may be critical for maintaining brain health," Benedict said, via the release.

More information regarding the study can be found via the journal Sleep.