How sleep affects fluid flow in the brain as we age
Sleep-dependent modulation of cerebrospinal fluid flow in aging
This study is looking at how sleep patterns affect the flow of a fluid in the brain for older adults who might be at risk for Alzheimer's disease, to see if poor sleep could play a role in developing the condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts Institute of Technology NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cambridge, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11013432 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between sleep patterns and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) flow in the aging brain, particularly focusing on individuals at risk for Alzheimer's disease. It aims to understand how disrupted sleep may not only be a symptom of neurodegeneration but could also contribute to the onset of Alzheimer's disease. By using advanced imaging techniques, the study will measure brain activity, blood flow, and CSF flow during sleep to explore how these factors interact. The goal is to determine if a decline in sleep-related brain activity is linked to reduced CSF flow, which may have implications for Alzheimer's disease risk.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include older adults, particularly those who exhibit sleep disturbances or have genetic risk factors for Alzheimer's disease.
Not a fit: Patients who are not experiencing sleep issues or do not have any risk factors for Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or mitigating Alzheimer's disease by improving sleep quality and CSF flow.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of sleep in brain health, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Cambridge, United States
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology — Cambridge, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lewis, Laura Diane — Massachusetts Institute of Technology
- Study coordinator: Lewis, Laura Diane
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 below.