Sleep efficiency and its effects on brain health and Alzheimer’s
Investigating sleep efficiency mechanism and its impact on diseases
Researchers are using genetics and lab models to learn how some people can sleep less without harm and whether improving sleep efficiency could help protect against Alzheimer’s disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Francisco NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11332785 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This work follows people who naturally sleep fewer hours but remain healthy to find genes that let their sleep be more efficient. Scientists map which brain cells and circuits those genes affect and test the same genes in mouse models, including mice that show Alzheimer-like changes. They then look to see whether the short-sleep genes or related pathways change Alzheimer's-related brain problems in animals. The aim is to find molecules or brain targets that could point toward new ways to improve sleep quality or lower dementia risk.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal participants include adults at risk for Alzheimer's and people with the natural short-sleep trait who are willing to share genetic information and sleep measurements.
Not a fit: People whose sleep problems are due to unrelated conditions like untreated sleep apnea or who cannot provide genetic or sleep data are less likely to benefit directly from this project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could point to new treatments or therapies that improve sleep efficiency and reduce the risk or progression of Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have identified genes for natural short sleep and linked poor sleep to cognitive decline, but applying those genetic findings to prevent or treat Alzheimer’s is largely new.
Where this research is happening
San Francisco, United States
- University of California, San Francisco — San Francisco, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fu, Ying-Hui — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Fu, Ying-Hui
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.