Wheat Alkylresorcinols Induce Non-Rapid Eye Movement Sleep by Reducing Core Body Temperature in Mice

Area of Science:

• Nutritional Neuroscience
• Sleep Science
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Wheat alkylresorcinols (ARs) are known for antioxidative and neuroprotective effects.
• The impact of ARs on sleep regulation has not been previously studied.
• Whole grains are associated with improved sleep, but the specific compounds responsible are unclear.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of wheat alkylresorcinols (ARs) on sleep regulation in mice.
• To test the hypothesis that ARs contribute to the sleep-promoting properties of whole grains.
• To explore the potential role of ARs in modulating body temperature and sleep onset.

Main Methods:

• Male C3H/HeN mice were administered ARs or vehicle via intragastric injection at the onset of the activity period.
• Continuous polygraphic electroencephalography was used to monitor brain activity.
• Locomotor activity and core/subcutaneous body temperatures were continuously recorded.

Main Results:

• AR administration led to an initial decrease in core body temperature, followed by reduced subcutaneous temperature.
• Locomotor activity, wakefulness, and body temperature decreased following AR injection.
• Non-rapid eye movement sleep duration significantly increased for several hours post-injection.

Conclusions:

• Wheat alkylresorcinols appear to promote sleep onset through a mechanism involving the reduction of core body temperature.
• These findings suggest ARs could be a key component in the sleep-enhancing benefits of whole grains.
• Further research is needed to determine the precise molecular pathways underlying ARs' effects on thermoregulation and sleep.