Altered coupling between global signal and cerebrospinal fluid inflow in depressed patients following sleep deprivation

Motivation: The deficiency of the glymphatic clearance system in depressed patients is linked to poor sleep quality. However, how sleep loss affects glymphatic function and its relationship with mood regulation remains unclear. Goal(s): To investigate the dynamic of global blood‑oxygen-level-dependent signals and cerebrospinal fluid inflow coupling (gBOLD-CSF coupling) during total sleep deprivation (TSD) and its role in mood regulation. Approach: Thirty depressed patients and 37 healthy controls underwent three rfMRI scans during in-laboratory TSD, with mood changes assessed using the HDRS-17. Results: Depressed patients exhibited impaired glymphatic functional resilience to TSD, with differing responses based on mood changes. Impact: Our findings reveal altered glymphatic function in depressed patients after sleep deprivation, offering insights for potential therapeutic interventions targeting mood regulation and brain health in depressive disorders.