Perspective Sleep, plasticity, and sensory neurodevelopment

A defining feature of early infancy is the immense neural plasticity that enables animals to develop a brain that is functionally integrated with a growing body. Early infancy is also defined as a period dominated by sleep. Here, we describe three conceptual frameworks that vary in terms of whether and how they incorporate sleep as a factor in the activity-dependent development of sensory and sensorimotor systems. The most widely accepted framework is exemplified by the visual system where retinal waves seemingly occur independent of sleep-wake states. An alternative framework is exemplified by the sensorimotor system where sensory feedback from sleep-specific movements activates the brain. We prefer a third framework that encompasses the first two but also captures the diverse ways in which sleep modulates activity-dependent development throughout the nervous system. Appreciation of the third framework will spur progress toward a more comprehensive and cohesive understanding of both typical and atypical neurodevelopment.

Automated summary

Early infancy is characterized by neural plasticity and sleep plays an important role in the development of sensory and sensorimotor systems. There are three conceptual frameworks regarding the role of sleep, with the third framework being the most comprehensive.