The Glymphatic System EXPLAINED [+ Review of CSF Flow]

The video explains the glymphatic system, responsible for clearing waste from the brain, distinct from the lymphatic system. It reviews cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) flow through brain ventricles, its circulation in the subarachnoid space, and clearance via sinuses and perivascular spaces. The glymphatic system's role in removing waste, including tau protein and beta amyloid, is linked to Alzheimer's disease. The system is more active during deep sleep, highlighting the importance of adequate sleep in reducing Alzheimer's risk.

What is the primary function of the glymphatic system?

• Nourishing brain cells

• Waste clearance from the brain

• Producing hormones

• Regulating blood flow

Which structures are responsible for producing cerebrospinal fluid in the ventricles?

• Blood vessels

• Choroid plexuses

• Neurons

• Astrocytes

Through which space does cerebrospinal fluid travel to reach the third ventricle?

• Central canal

• Subarachnoid space

• Median aperture

• Intraventricular foramen

Where does cerebrospinal fluid go after leaving the subarachnoid space?

• Into the lymphatic system

• Into the ventricles

• Into the spinal cord

• Into the sinuses and perivascular space

What role do astrocytes play in the glymphatic system?

• They facilitate CSF movement through perivascular spaces

• They form the blood-brain barrier

• They produce cerebrospinal fluid

• They generate electrical impulses

What are the two abnormal proteins that the glymphatic system helps to clear?

• Albumin and globulin

• Hemoglobin and myoglobin

• Insulin and glucagon

• Tau protein and beta amyloid

How does the glymphatic system help prevent Alzheimer's disease?

• By regulating neurotransmitter levels

• By increasing blood flow to the brain

• By removing waste proteins like tau and beta amyloid

• By enhancing neuron growth

What effect does sleep have on the glymphatic system?

• It stops its function

• It increases its activity

• It has no effect

• It decreases its activity

What might happen if the glymphatic system is impaired?

• Increased production of cerebrospinal fluid

• Enhanced cognitive abilities

• Accumulation of waste proteins leading to neuron damage

• Improved memory function

Why is adequate sleep important for brain health?

• It enhances the glymphatic system's ability to clear waste

• It reduces blood pressure

• It boosts immune function

• It increases heart rate