Investigating how tau buildup affects memory and sleep in older adults at risk for Alzheimer's disease

Circuit-specific tau burden and mechanisms of sleep-dependent memory processing in older adults at risk for Alzheimer’s disease

NIH-funded research University of California-Irvine · NIH-10539903

This study is looking at how the buildup of a protein called tau in certain parts of the brain affects memory and sleep in older adults who might be at risk for Alzheimer's disease, and it involves some brain scans and sleep tests to help us understand this better.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California-Irvine NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Irvine, United States)
Project IDNIH-10539903 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores the relationship between tau protein accumulation in specific brain circuits and its impact on memory processing and sleep in older adults who are at risk for Alzheimer's disease. By using advanced imaging techniques and sleep monitoring, the study aims to understand how tau affects both emotional and non-emotional memory functions. Participants will undergo neuroimaging and polysomnography to assess brain activity and sleep patterns, providing insights into the mechanisms behind memory impairment associated with Alzheimer's.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults who are at risk for Alzheimer's disease and may be experiencing memory issues.

Not a fit: Patients who are not at risk for Alzheimer's disease or who do not have memory concerns may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and potential interventions for memory loss in older adults at risk for Alzheimer's disease.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of tau in cognitive decline, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Irvine, 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's DiseaseAlzheimer disease
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.