Circadian rhythm circuits and sundowning in Alzheimer's disease
Official title: The circuit basis of sundowning-related circadian dysfunction in Alzheimer's disease and Alzheimer's disease-related dementias
Funded at University of Wyoming · NIH-11380918 · Data updated 2026-11-12
Scientists are studying how brain clocks contribute to sundowning and agitation in people with Alzheimer’s and related dementias.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Wyoming NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Laramie, United States) |
| Project start | September 21, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $351,841 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS135592-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11380918 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates include individuals with Alzheimer’s disease or related dementias who experience sundowning or circadian-related disturbances.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without significant circadian disturbances may derive limited direct benefit.
What this research studies
This project looks at how disruption of the brain’s circadian system may cause daily changes in behavior and agitation seen in some patients with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. The researchers use a mouse model to understand how the suprachiasmatic nucleus and its pathways regulate body temperature, activity, and aggression patterns across the day. By mapping circuit connections and timing, they aim to link circadian dysfunction to sundowning symptoms. The long-term goal is to uncover targets that could help stabilize rhythms and reduce evening agitation in patients. If successful, this work could guide new approaches to managing symptoms in AD/ADRD.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: A better understanding of circadian causes of sundowning could lead to new strategies to reduce evening agitation and improve quality of life for patients and caregivers.
How similar studies have gone: Prior work suggests circadian disruption is linked to behavioral changes, and this project builds on established animal models to explore mechanisms.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Wyoming
Laramie, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Todd, William David — University of Wyoming
- Study coordinator: Todd, William David
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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.