Brain systems and neurodegenerative co-pathologies in sleep disturbance

Project title: Brain systems and neurodegenerative co-pathologies in sleep disturbance 

Principal Investigator: Professor Sharon Naismith and Associate Professor Elie Matar 

Principal Investigator institution: The University of Sydney

Summary of the project:  

Sleep problems, like acting out dreams or waking up during sleep, can occur years before people are diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or Lewy Body diseases, such as Parkinson’s. Some sleep problems are common across these diseases, while others may be unique. Understanding which sleep changes happen early, and how they differ, may help doctors detect these diseases sooner and develop better treatments. This project focuses on a tiny but important brain area called the locus coeruleus (LC). The LC helps control sleep, alertness, and memory. It is also one of the first areas damaged in Alzheimer’s and Lewy Body diseases. Damage to the LC may cause or worsen sleep problems and memory decline. We will study older adults who are at high risk for these diseases, including those with memory problems (called mild cognitive impairment) and those with a sleep disorder called REM sleep behaviour disorder (up to 80% develop Lewy Body diseases). Using detailed sleep studies, brain scans, blood tests, eye tests, digital sleep technologies, and thinking and memory tests, we will investigate how damage to the LC affects sleep and thinking.

We will conduct two streams of research (1) recruiting 100 new participants; and (2) following up existing participants. STREAM 1 will help us understand how having co-pathologies related to Alzheimer’s and Lewy Body diseases affects both the LC and sleep, as well as their relationship. STREAM 2 will enable us to determine whether LC integrity predicts cognitive decline and changes to sleep disturbance This research could improve early diagnosis and help doctors tailor treatments based on a person’s sleep and brain changes.

Project duration: 24 months