Investigating how sleep patterns and genes relate to Alzheimer's risk in shift workers

Sleep depth and circadian genes as potential markers to reflect symptom variation and early risk of Alzheimer's disease in shift workers

NIH-funded research University of Nevada Las Vegas · NIH-11040304

This study is looking at how working night shifts affects sleep quality and brain health, especially in relation to Alzheimer's disease, by checking the sleep patterns and cognitive abilities of people who work these hours.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Nevada Las Vegas NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Las Vegas, United States)
Project IDNIH-11040304 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the relationship between sleep depth, circadian genes, and the risk of Alzheimer's disease in individuals who work night shifts. It aims to identify biomarkers that can indicate how well shift workers adapt to their schedules and how this affects their cognitive health. The study will involve assessing sleep quality, cognitive function, and biological markers in a cohort of active and retired shift workers. By examining these factors, the research seeks to provide insights into the early signs of Alzheimer's disease and how shift work may influence these risks.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 65 and older who have experience working night shifts.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have a history of shift work or are under the age of 65 may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to early identification of individuals at risk for Alzheimer's disease, allowing for timely interventions.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated a link between circadian disruption and cognitive decline, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Las Vegas, 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 2026-06-13 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.