Neuroscience of Near-Death
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.58445/rars.849Keywords:
Near-Death Experiences, Neuroscience, hypoxiaAbstract
Near-Death Experiences (NDEs) pose numerous unanswered questions within the realms of medicine and basic science. NDEs are experiences of someone who is dying or in the process of dying. During these encounters, the brain enters a hypoxic state affecting numerous neuronal pathways and brain connectivities. Studying and concluding NDE research has been challenging because most of it has been retrospective, raising the question of the reliability of the experiencer's memories (Greyson, 2013). This review article delves into recent advances in NDE research, focusing on molecular mechanisms related to hypoxia, neural circuits affected by NDEs, and potential treatments. It also explores the role of hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs) in brain development and their potential connection to NDEs. Additionally, the article discusses the influence of brain networks and neurotransmitters on NDEs and raises intriguing questions about the relationship between NDEs and drug-induced experiences.
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