Understanding how brain injuries affect sleep disorders in veterans

Neural mechanisms underlying the connection between Neurotrauma and REM Sleep Behavior Disorder

NIH-funded research Portland VA Medical Center · NIH-11109418

This study is looking at how brain injuries and PTSD might lead to sleep problems, specifically a condition called REM Sleep Behavior Disorder, in veterans, and it hopes to find out what causes these sleep issues and how they might relate to future health concerns.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionPortland VA Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Portland, United States)
Project IDNIH-11109418 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the connection between neurotrauma, such as traumatic brain injury (TBI) and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and the development of REM Sleep Behavior Disorder (RBD) in veterans. It aims to explore how these conditions disrupt normal sleep patterns, particularly the muscle paralysis that typically occurs during REM sleep. By studying the neural mechanisms involved, the research seeks to identify predictors and pathways that link neurotrauma to sleep disturbances and potential future neurodegenerative diseases. Veterans with a history of TBI and PTSD will be the focus of this investigation.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are veterans who have experienced traumatic brain injuries or PTSD.

Not a fit: Patients without a history of neurotrauma or sleep disorders may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for sleep disorders in veterans, potentially reducing the risk of developing Parkinson's Disease.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have indicated a strong link between neurotrauma and sleep disorders, suggesting that this research builds on established findings rather than exploring an untested area.

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 2026-06-13 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.