Understanding how sleep affects memory and Alzheimer's disease
Official title: A Breakdown of Memory Replay: Elucidating the Relationship Between Sleep and Alzheimer's Disease from Surface Electroencephalography
Funded at University of Colorado Denver · NIH-10843761 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how sleep problems might affect memory and thinking in people with Alzheimer's disease, and it aims to find ways to improve sleep to help protect the brain.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado Denver NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | June 1, 2023 |
| Project end | February 28, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $155,500 |
| NIH project number | 5R03AG080427-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10843761 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include adults aged 21 and older who are experiencing cognitive decline or are at risk for Alzheimer's disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not experiencing cognitive decline or do not have risk factors for Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between sleep patterns and Alzheimer's disease, focusing on how sleep disruptions may contribute to cognitive decline. By using surface electroencephalography (EEG), the study aims to identify specific brain activity patterns associated with memory replay during sleep. The research team will analyze slow waves, theta bursts, and sleep spindles to understand their roles in memory processing and neuroprotection. The ultimate goal is to develop methods for detecting and potentially reversing the effects of Alzheimer's disease through improved sleep quality.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or slowing the progression of Alzheimer's disease by enhancing sleep quality.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the connection between sleep and cognitive health, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Colorado Denver
Aurora, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mcconnell, Brice V — University of Colorado Denver
- Study coordinator: Mcconnell, Brice V
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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.