Investigating how sleep disruption after a concussion affects brain waste clearance in college athletes

Understanding the effect of post-concussive sleep disruption on glymphatic function in collegiate athletes

NIH-funded research Oregon Health & Science University · NIH-11042652

This study is looking at college athletes who have trouble sleeping after a concussion to find out who might be at risk and how sleep issues can affect their recovery, with the goal of discovering new ways to help them sleep better and heal faster.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionOregon Health & Science University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Portland, United States)
Project IDNIH-11042652 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on collegiate athletes who experience sleep disturbances following a concussion, which can lead to worse cognitive and physical recovery outcomes. The study aims to identify which athletes are at risk for these sleep issues and to explore the biological mechanisms that connect sleep disruption to poor recovery. By examining the glymphatic system, which helps clear waste from the brain during sleep, the research seeks to establish new therapeutic targets for improving sleep and recovery in affected athletes. The findings could lead to better identification and treatment strategies for those struggling with post-concussive sleep problems.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are collegiate athletes who have recently sustained a concussion and are experiencing sleep disturbances.

Not a fit: Patients who have not experienced a concussion or do not have sleep disturbances following a concussion may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved recovery strategies for athletes suffering from sleep disturbances after concussions.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that addressing sleep issues in concussion patients can lead to improved recovery outcomes, suggesting that this approach may be promising.

Where this research is happening

Portland, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 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.