 The study found that a specific group of neurons in the brainstem, called CRH neurons, play a key role in regulating rapid eye movement, REM, sleep and the spike-like pontomidullary waves, P waves, that occurred during it. These neurons are also responsible for triggering theta oscillations in the EEG, which are thought to be involved in memory processing. The researchers were able to manipulate the activity of these neurons using optogenetics or chemical stimuli and found that they can induce either prolonged REM sleep or shortened P wave frequencies. This suggests that the CRH neuron network may serve as a central hub for regulating both REM sleep and P waves. This article was authored by Amanda L. Schott, Justin Baig, Shin Jae Chung and others.