Glial Contributions to Sleep: Emerging Roles in Expression, Regulation, and Function

Glial cells are increasingly recognized as active participants in the control and regulation of sleep. This perspective highlights emerging evidence showing that astrocytes, microglia, and oligodendrocytes play key roles in sleep expression, homeostasis, and its proposed functions. I also explore important methodological advances and associated challenges for glial research and discuss unresolved questions regarding mechanisms underlying glial contributions to sleep and neurobiology. Together, these insights underscore the need to further identify how non-neuronal cells shape sleep physiology and function, with potential implications for promoting, restoring, and maintaining sleep health.