The impact of sleep deprivation on the functional connectivity of visual-related brain regions

Abstract

BackgroundSleep deprivation(SD) is known to impair cognitive function and emotional regulation, however, its specific effects on the functional connectivity of visual-related brain regions remain unclear. ObjectivesThis study aimed to investigate the impact of 36-h acute sleep deprivation on functional connectivity in visual neural circuits and its relationship with cognitive and emotional changes. MethodsSixty healthy male participants were assessed before and after 36 h of sleep deprivation using resting-state fMRI, the Psychomotor Vigilance Task (PVT), the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), and the Profile of Mood States (POMS). Functional connectivity changes were analyzed using paired t-tests and False Discovery Rate (FDR) correction. Key resultsSleep deprivation significantly altered functional connectivity between the prefrontal cortex, hippocampus, and visual processing regions. These changes correlated with slower PVT reaction times, increased subjective sleepiness (ESS), and emotional disturbances (POMS), including heightened tension and reduced self-esteem. ConclusionsThe findings suggest that acute sleep deprivation impairs cognitive performance and emotional regulation by changing functional connectivity in key brain regions. These results may strengthen our understanding of neurobiology of SD and its potential negative effects.