Sleep and motor skill learning

Neuron. 2002 Jul 3;35(1):5-7. doi: 10.1016/s0896-6273(02)00766-3.

Abstract

The improvement of a perceptual or motor skill continues after training has ended. The central question is whether this improvement is just a function of time or whether sleep, a certain circadian phase, or their interaction (sleep occurring in a particular circadian phase) is favorable to the reprocessing of recent memory traces. In this issue of Neuron, provide behavioral evidence that most of the improvement of a motor skill depends on nocturnal sleep.

Publication types

  • Comment
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Cerebral Cortex / physiology*
  • Circadian Rhythm / physiology*
  • Humans
  • Learning / physiology*
  • Memory / physiology*
  • Motor Skills / physiology*
  • Neuronal Plasticity / physiology
  • Sleep / physiology*
  • Sleep Deprivation / metabolism
  • Sleep Deprivation / physiopathology