Understanding the brain circuits involved in nighttime agitation in Alzheimer's disease
Official title: The circuit basis of sundowning-related circadian dysfunction in Alzheimer's disease and Alzheimer's disease-related dementias
Funded at University of Wyoming · NIH-10933533 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how changes in the brain's natural sleep-wake cycle can cause increased restlessness and confusion in people with Alzheimer's and similar conditions, hoping to find ways to help manage these nighttime issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Wyoming NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Laramie, United States) |
| Project start | September 21, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $351,841 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS135592-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10933533 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or related dementias who experience symptoms of sundowning.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without Alzheimer's disease or related dementias, or those who do not experience circadian rhythm disruptions, may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how disruptions in the brain's circadian rhythms contribute to behavioral issues, such as agitation and aggression, in patients with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. By studying the master circadian pacemaker in the brain, researchers aim to uncover the mechanisms that lead to 'sundowning,' a phenomenon where patients exhibit increased restlessness and confusion during the late afternoon and evening. The study utilizes a mouse model to explore how these circadian disruptions affect behavior and may lead to potential interventions. Patients may benefit from insights that could improve management strategies for nighttime disturbances.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better management of nighttime agitation in Alzheimer's patients, improving their quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that understanding circadian rhythms can lead to significant improvements in managing behavioral symptoms in dementia patients, suggesting a promising avenue for this investigation.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Wyoming
Laramie, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Todd, William David — University of Wyoming
- Study coordinator: Todd, William David
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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.