A device to improve sleep in Alzheimer's patients
Official title: A novel closed-loop feedback neuromodulation system for improving slow wave sleep in Alzheimer's disease patients
Funded at Synaptic Health LLC · NIH-10913009 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new device designed to help people with Alzheimer's disease get better sleep by improving the quality and length of their deep sleep, which is important for their brain health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 1 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Synaptic Health LLC NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Brighton, United States) |
| Project start | September 25, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $499,386 |
| NIH project number | 1R43AG084379-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10913009 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 65 and older who are experiencing mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with severe Alzheimer's disease or those who do not have sleep disturbances may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a novel device that enhances slow wave sleep (SWS) in patients with Alzheimer's disease. By using a closed-loop feedback neuromodulation system, the device aims to promote better sleep onset, duration, and architecture, which are crucial for cognitive health. The study will involve creating a prototype that can monitor sleep patterns and deliver targeted stimulation to improve sleep quality. This approach addresses the significant issue of sleep disturbances that affect many Alzheimer's patients and could potentially slow the progression of the disease.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved sleep quality for Alzheimer's patients, potentially slowing cognitive decline and enhancing overall well-being.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in using neuromodulation techniques to improve sleep in other populations, indicating potential success for this novel approach in Alzheimer's patients.
Where this research is happening
-
Synaptic Health LLC
New Brighton, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Krohn, Brian — Synaptic Health LLC
- Study coordinator: Krohn, Brian
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.