頭の疲れの正体［教養］脳の疲労をアデノシンで解説

Is Brain Fatigue Really "Burning Waste"? The Relationship Between Adenosine and Concentration "My brain isn't working," "I don't want to think anymore" This article, from a psychiatrist's perspective, explains what happens in our brains when we feel this way. This Topic: Brain Fatigue and Adenosine Adenosine: The Brain's Burning Waste When the brain consumes energy, a substance called adenosine is produced as a byproduct. This accumulates in the **anterior cingulate cortex**, which governs "motivation" and "effort," causing us to feel "brain fatigue." Why Does Motivation Decrease? Adenosine has the effect of suppressing the function of dopamine, which is involved in pleasure and motivation. The feeling of fatigue and the simultaneous aversion to "not wanting to do it" are due to a chemical reaction in the brain. The Brain's Role as a "Brake" Continuing to use the brain leads to the accumulation of neurotoxic waste products such as amyloid-beta. It is believed that the brain intentionally induces fatigue to prevent further damage, thus acting as a brake on its activity. The Difference Between "Sleepiness" and "Fatigue" Sleepiness is also caused by the accumulation of adenosine, but the extent of this accumulation differs. Accumulation throughout the brain: Sleepiness Accumulation limited to the anterior cingulate cortex: Brain fatigue Treatment and Precautions Caffeine blocks adenosine receptors, making you feel less tired, but it's important to be aware of the potential for damage to the brain. The most effective solution is sleep; even short breaks can help lower adenosine levels. Reference 1) Martin, K., Meeusen, R., Thompson, K. G., Keegan, R., & Rattray, B. (2018). Mental fatigue impairs endurance performance: A physiological explanation. Sports Medicine, 48(9), 2041–2051. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40279-018-09... 2) Salihu, A. T., Hill, K. D., & Jaberzadeh, S. (2022). Neural mechanisms underlying state mental fatigue: a systematic review and activation likelihood estimation meta-analysis. Research Square. https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-1388...