Scientists at the University of Texas in the US have developed an innovative wearable patch that, without surgery or medication, can help people enter REM sleep (Rapid Eye Movement sleep) faster and stay in that stage longer.

According to scientists, the device called NEUSLeeP combines electrodes that monitor brain activity in real time.

The researchers say this new technology can target the deep parts of the brain associated with REM sleep (Rapid Eye Movement sleep), while also monitoring the brain’s response to sleep.

Scientists tested the patch on 28 people, the results of which were published in the scientific journal Nature Communications.

According to the research, people using the device entered REM sleep an average of 43 minutes earlier, while they spent about 16 minutes extra in this stage.

This effect was seen in healthy individuals as well as those experiencing sleep problems.

According to the participants, the patch was comfortable to wear, while side effects were minimal during the study.

The researchers also discovered that certain changes associated with managing stress in the body occurred after the ultrasound.

Healthy participants showed a significant increase in heart rate fluctuations, which is usually associated with the body’s ability to cope with and respond to stress.

Changes in brain circuits related to emotional processing were also observed during brain imaging.

According to the researchers, these findings are important because disruption of REM sleep has been linked to mental health problems such as depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

The scientists emphasized that extensive further research is needed before NEUSLeeP can be used as a regular treatment.

Future research is planned to test whether the technology can also be effective for people experiencing chronic insomnia, depression and PTSD.