Sleep loss alters synaptic and intrinsic neuronal properties in mouse prefrontal cortex

Despite sleep-loss-induced cognitive deficits, little is known about the cellular adaptations that occur with sleep loss. We used brain slices obtained from mice that were sleep deprived for 8 h to examine the electrophysiological effects of sleep deprivation (SD). We employed a modified pedestal (flowerpot) over water method for SD that eliminated rapid eye movement sleep and greatly reduced non-rapid eye movement sleep. In layer V/VI pyramidal cells of the medial prefrontal cortex, miniature excitatory post synaptic current amplitude was slightly reduced, miniature inhibitory post synaptic currents were unaffected, and intrinsic membrane excitability was increased after SD.

► Sleep loss induces adaptations in deep layer pyramidal cells of the mouse prefrontal cortex.
► Miniature excitatory post synaptic current amplitude slightly reduced.
► Miniature inhibitory post synaptic currents were unaffected.
► Intrinsic membrane excitability increased.