Serotonin is a brain transmitter substance that functions in a variety of different behaviors, two of which are sleep and movement. Measurement of serotonin in specific brain regions during behavior is made possible by a new technique called microdialysis. Dr. Auerbach will utilize this technique to study the relationship between serotonin levels and the onset of sleep. If serotonin release causes sleep, increases in this transmitter should be seen at the time of sleep onset. The relationship between serotonin levels and rhythmic movements of the jaw and tongue will be studied to test the hypothesis that serotonin activates the neural structures which control these movements. This work will contribute to knowledge about the role of brain transmitters in regulation of behavioral events.
