Purpose of REM sleep: endogenous anti-epileptogenesis in man -- a hypothesis

Neuro-scientists, worldwide, are endeavoring to elucidate the purpose of sleep which still remains largely elusive. There is, however, consensus on many aspects of sleep functions; one such aspect is its relationship with seizures/epilepsy. There is unequivocal agreement on increased susceptibility to epilepsy during nonrapid eye movement (NREM, slow-wave) sleep. Large number of studies have shown increased frequency of seizures and interictal epileptiform discharges in epileptic patients during NREM sleep (esp., stages I and II) which is associated with EEG synchronization. Similarly, there is widespread acceptance of de-synchronized brain-activity states being associated with rarity/total absence of epileptic potentials, one such state being rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. Certain drugs and substances which inhibit NREM sleep have been found to possess anti-convulsant properties. Not surprisingly, drugs/chemicals which enhance/promote NREM sleep or suppress/inhibit REM sleep are associated with increased susceptibility to seizures and are contraindicated in epilepsy. The manner and pattern in which REM phase occurs in sleep are also naturally programmed to exert anti-epileptogenic influence. This hypothesis-article highlights and conceptualizes the primary function of REM-sleep as endogenous anti-epileptogenic system in the body akin to the endogenous analgesia and immune systems man is born with.