Understanding how individual neurons encode sleep and wake states

The Sleep Signature: A Disentangled State in Each Neuron

['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP'] · WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY · NIH-10900364

This study is looking at how brain cells work during sleep and wakefulness to help us understand sleep better, which could be useful for people with conditions like Alzheimer's and autism.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorWASHINGTON UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SAINT LOUIS, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10900364 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how individual neurons in the brain encode different states of sleep and wakefulness. By analyzing fast neuronal spike patterns, the study aims to uncover the unique ways that each neuron contributes to our understanding of sleep. The approach involves using microelectrode recordings and machine learning techniques to disentangle the influences of various factors on neuronal activity. This could lead to a deeper understanding of sleep mechanisms and their implications for conditions like Alzheimer's disease and autism.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with sleep disorders, Alzheimer's disease, or autism spectrum disorders.

Not a fit: Patients without any sleep-related issues or neurological conditions may not receive benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of sleep disorders and lead to improved treatments for conditions such as Alzheimer's disease and autism.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding neuronal activity patterns, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

SAINT LOUIS, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Alzheimer disease dementia, Alzheimer syndrome, Alzheimer's Disease

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.