Via these diverse connections, the thalamus seems to make major contributions to circadian sleep regulation and wakefulness. The SCN contains specialized neurons which drive circa- dian rhythms in mammals, including humans [5, 22].

How does the thalamus regulate sleep?

During sleep, the thalamus stops relaying sensory information to the brain, however it continues to produce signals that are sent to its cortical projections.

Is the thalamus involved in sleep?

The thalamus has a strong nonphotic influence on sleep, circadian rhythmicity, pineal melatonin production, and secretion. The opening of the sleep gate for nonrapid eye movement sleep is a thalamic function but it is assisted by melatonin which acts by promoting spindle formation.