Neuroendocrine outcomes of sleep deprivation in humans and animals

Abstract

Hormones can modulate and be modulated by sleep. This close relationship has been recognised for many decades. Sleep deprivation is an adverse condition that can alter the functioning of the neuroendocrine system, inasmuch as concentrations of hormones involved in anabolic processes, such as growth hormone (GH) are reduced, whilst levels of hormones involved in anabolic processes, such as glucocorticoids (GC) are increased. Therefore, prolonged periods of sleep deprivation, either internally or externally imposed, may lead to a wear and tear phenomenon, much similar to prolonged stressful conditions. In human beings, the vicious circle composed by sleep deprivation, stress and obesity has been claimed to be a major contributor to type II diabetes, cardiovascular diseases and ultimately, death