Summary

Figure 11. The "UP" state of the slow oscillation is generated through recurrent excitation that is controlled by local inhibition. This activity allows for the entry of Ca2+ and Na+ into the neuron, which in turn results in the activation of K+ currents. The build up of these K+ currents results in the failure of the slow oscillation, and the cessation of the "UP" state. During the "DOWN" state, the K+ currents slowly dissipate, and this allows for the generation of another "UP" state. Through these mechanisms, the cerebral cortex during sleep generates rhythmic, recurrent and spontaneous activity.