How sleep affects memory and problem-solving abilities
Official title: The impact of sleep on memory selectivity and problem solving: Common and distinct neural mechanisms
Funded at University of Notre Dame · NIH-10906172 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how sleep helps us remember important things and solve problems better, especially when those memories are tied to strong emotions, and it’s for anyone interested in understanding the benefits of a good night's sleep on their brain.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Notre Dame NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Notre Dame, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2022 |
| Project end | September 29, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $81,892 |
| NIH project number | 5F32HL162480-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10906172 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who experience cognitive deficits or mental health challenges related to memory and problem-solving.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have any cognitive impairments or sleep-related issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of sleep in enhancing memory selectivity and problem-solving skills, particularly focusing on how sleep influences emotionally significant memories. By using EEG technology, researchers will monitor brain activity during sleep to understand the neural mechanisms involved in these cognitive processes. The study aims to explore the unique contributions of sleep to emotional memory and problem-solving, as well as the effects of targeted memory reactivation during REM sleep. Participants will be involved in a controlled sleep environment to ensure accurate data collection and analysis.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for enhancing cognitive function and addressing memory-related issues in patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the relationship between sleep and cognitive functions, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Notre Dame
Notre Dame, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sanders, Kristin — University of Notre Dame
- Study coordinator: Sanders, Kristin
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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.