New research sheds light on why it feels harder to wake up in cold winter mornings

Scientists have discovered a neuronal circuit in flies that acts like a thermometer, inhibiting neurons responsible for alertness, especially in the morning. Researchers from Northwestern University found that receptors in the fly's antennas respond to temperatures below 25°C (77°F). These receptors communicate with brain neurons that regulate wakefulness and sleep rhythms. When external temperatures drop, neurons usually activated by morning light are suppressed, affecting the fly's alertness.

What did neurobiologists from Northwestern University find in the fly's antennas?

How do certain neurons respond to changes in temperature according to the text?

What is the role of the circuit of neurons mentioned in the text?

Describe the relationship between temperature and wakefulness as indicated in the text.

What happens to neurons that are normally activated by morning light when external temperatures decrease?