How sounds during sleep affect memory and brain function
Official title: The neural mechanisms and mnemonic consequences of sound processing during sleep
Funded at University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-11093486 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how our brains handle sounds while we sleep and how that might affect our memory, especially when there’s noise around, so we can learn more about how to help people remember things better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project start | July 15, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $499,100 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS129874-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11093486 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals experiencing cognitive decline or memory impairments, particularly those living in noisy urban settings.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not experience sleep disturbances or cognitive issues may not receive significant benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the brain processes sounds while we sleep and the implications for memory and cognitive function. It explores the neural mechanisms involved in sound processing and how these may interfere with memory consolidation, especially in noisy environments. The study aims to understand the balance between the brain's response to external sounds and its internal memory processes, which are crucial for transforming short-term memories into long-term ones.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for enhancing memory retention and cognitive function during sleep.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have indicated that sound exposure during sleep can impact memory, suggesting that this research builds on established findings in a novel way.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rothschild, Gideon — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Rothschild, Gideon
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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.