Exploring the Relationship between Visual Memory Consolidation and Dreaming During the Transition from NREM to REM Sleep: A Systematic Review

Abstract

This systematic review investigates the intricate relationship between visual memory consolidation and dreaming during the transition from Non-Rapid Eye Movement (NREM) to Rapid Eye Movement (REM) sleep in human subjects. Recognising the pivotal role of these sleep stages in memory processes and dreaming, we employed a comprehensive search strategy to identify relevant literature. A total of 23 studies were included in the quantitative synthesis, focusing on methodologies assessing visual memory and dreaming experiences during the NREM-REM transition. Each study underwent rigorous evaluation for risk of bias to ensure the reliability and validity of findings, with those identified as having a high risk of bias given less weight in result synthesis. Our analysis highlights the importance of understanding the interplay between visual memory consolidation and dreaming during the NREM-REM transition, shedding light on fundamental aspects of sleep-dependent memory processes and dreaming.