How sleep affects memory and context in humans
Official title: The role of context in sleep-related memory reactivation in humans
Funded at University of California-Irvine · NIH-10989922 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the environment around us can help bring back memories while we sleep, which is important for making those memories stronger, and it could lead to new ways to help people with memory problems, especially those dealing with post-traumatic stress disorder.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California-Irvine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Irvine, United States) |
| Project start | December 10, 2022 |
| Project end | November 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $211,651 |
| NIH project number | 5R00MH122663-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-10989922 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals experiencing memory-related issues, particularly those with post-traumatic stress disorder.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without memory-related disorders or those not experiencing significant sleep disturbances may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of context in the reactivation of memories during sleep, which is essential for memory consolidation. By exploring how memories are influenced by their surrounding context, the study aims to develop a framework that connects memory processes with sleep-related consolidation. The researchers will employ innovative techniques, including machine-learning algorithms, to manipulate memory reactivation during sleep. This could lead to new interventions for individuals with memory-related issues, particularly those suffering from conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for improving memory and alleviating symptoms in patients with memory-related disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the relationship between sleep and memory, suggesting that this approach could yield significant insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California-Irvine
Irvine, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Schechtman-Drayman, Eitan — University of California-Irvine
- Study coordinator: Schechtman-Drayman, Eitan
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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.