Reactivation of memory traces during hippocampal sharp wave ripples (SPW-Rs) drives memory consolidation, a process that occurs almost exclusively during non-rapid-eye-movement (NREM) sleep and quiet wakefulness. Feng et al. identify a population of hippocampal interneurons that are selectively active during these ‘offline’ states and regulate sleep-dependent SPW-R generation and memory consolidation. Feng et al. hypothesized that the sleep-dependence of memory consolidation is mediated by neurons that are sensitive to signals of brain state.
One such signal is the neuromodulator acetylcholine (ACh), which is present at high levels during active wakefulness and REM sleep but drops to low levels during NREM sleep. Through a re-analysis of published mouse single-cell transcriptomic datasets, the authors identified a population of hippocampal GABAergic neurons that express the inhibitory ACh receptor CHRM2. Genetic targeting of these neurons coupled with fibre photometry confirmed that they are preferentially active during NREM sleep.
This is a preview of subscription content, access via your institution Access Nature and 54 other Nature Portfolio journals Get Nature+, our best-value online-access subscription Receive 12 print issues and online access Prices may be subject to local taxes which are calculated during checkout Feng, Y. et al. An acetylcholine-inhibited sleep-active hippocampal interneuron orchestrates memory consolidation. Neuron https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neuron.2026.09.031 (2026) Nature Reviews Neuroscience http://www.nature.com/nrn/ Whalley, K.
Sleep-sensitive neurons mediate consolidation. Neurosci. (2026). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41583-026-01101-w DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41583-026-01101-w
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