Investigating how sleep loss affects attention and cognition in veterans
BLRD Research Career Scientist Award Application
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · VA BOSTON HEALTH CARE SYSTEM · NIH-10881643
This study is looking at how sleep problems, like sleep apnea, affect thinking and focus in US veterans, with the hope of finding new ways to help improve brain function for those dealing with issues like Alzheimer's, PTSD, and depression.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | VA BOSTON HEALTH CARE SYSTEM (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10881643 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how sleep disorders, such as sleep apnea, contribute to cognitive impairments and attention deficits, particularly in US veterans. By exploring the brain circuitry involved in attention, the study aims to develop new treatments that could improve cognitive function in individuals suffering from conditions like Alzheimer's disease, PTSD, and depression. The research utilizes advanced optogenetic techniques to selectively activate specific neurons in the brain that are crucial for wakefulness and attention. The goal is to find ways to enhance cognitive performance and reduce the negative impacts of sleep loss.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include US veterans experiencing sleep disorders and cognitive impairments related to conditions such as Alzheimer's disease, PTSD, or depression.
Not a fit: Patients without sleep disorders or cognitive impairments, or those not affiliated with the veteran community, may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve cognitive function and reduce accident rates among veterans suffering from sleep disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using optogenetic methods to enhance attention and cognitive function, indicating that this approach may lead to significant advancements.
Where this research is happening
BOSTON, UNITED STATES
- VA BOSTON HEALTH CARE SYSTEM — BOSTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: STRECKER, ROBERT E — VA BOSTON HEALTH CARE SYSTEM
- Study coordinator: STRECKER, ROBERT E
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 below.
Conditions: Alzheimer disease dementia, Alzheimer syndrome