Improving sleep and brain health in older adults with Alzheimer's disease

Improving Sleep and AD Biomarkers: A Pilot RCT of Citicoline

NIH-funded research Emory University · NIH-10770497

This study is looking at how a supplement called Citicoline might help improve sleep and brain function in older adults who have mild cognitive impairment or Alzheimer's disease, to see if better sleep can make a positive difference in their overall health.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionEmory University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Atlanta, United States)
Project IDNIH-10770497 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the effects of Citicoline, a compound that may enhance brain function, on sleep disturbances in older adults with mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease. The study aims to understand how improving sleep can potentially modify the neurobiology of Alzheimer's, particularly focusing on the cholinergic system, which is crucial for sleep regulation. Participants will be monitored for changes in sleep patterns and cognitive function as they receive Citicoline treatment over the course of the study.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment or Alzheimer's disease who experience sleep disturbances.

Not a fit: Patients without cognitive impairment or those who do not experience sleep issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved sleep quality and cognitive function in patients with Alzheimer's disease.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results in improving cognitive function with similar interventions, indicating potential for success in this approach.

Where this research is happening

Atlanta, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Alzheimer disease dementiaAlzheimer syndrome
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.