Understanding how sleep affects learning and memory as we age
Official title: The role of wake-associated protein kinase A transients in intrinsic plasticity and learning through aging
Funded at Washington University · NIH-10915458 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how sleep affects learning and memory as we get older, focusing on a special protein in the brain, and it aims to help us understand how sleep problems might impact our thinking skills as we age.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $34,926 |
| NIH project number | 5F30AG084271-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10915458 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults experiencing cognitive decline or sleep disruptions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are younger than 21 years old or do not have any cognitive or sleep-related issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between sleep, aging, and learning by examining the role of a specific protein kinase, PKA, in the brain. Using advanced imaging techniques, the study aims to observe how PKA activity changes during sleep and wake transitions, particularly in aging mice. By understanding these mechanisms, the research seeks to uncover how sleep disruptions impact memory and cognitive function in older adults. The findings could lead to new insights into improving learning and memory in the aging population.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to strategies for enhancing memory and cognitive function in older adults, particularly those affected by sleep disturbances.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of sleep in cognitive function, but this specific approach using real-time imaging of PKA activity is novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tilden, Elizabeth — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Tilden, Elizabeth
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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.