I experience episodes of what I assume is sleep paralysis (lasting ~ 10-30 seconds) a few times a year, where I'm conscious of being somewhat awake but unable to move. I can hear, but not see, and am quite focused on my breathing which feels labored and uncomfortable (can be accompanied by a feeling my face is covered by a sheet). Sometimes, I've even been able to "jolt" myself awake if somehow muscle control is regained. Otherwise, I assume I drift off back to sleep.

Do we know yet what has gone wrong (if it can be assumed to be aberrant) and which neural circuits are involved?

Is anyone aware of anyone conducting research into this or how it could be studied as it doesn't occur frequently and likely difficult to induce on demand?