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Combating memory decline during sleep

Lead supervisor:  Prof. Bernhard Staresina 

Co-supervisor: Prof. Andrew Sharott

Commercial partner: Clarity Technologies

 

This project tackles cognitive decline in aging by capitalizing on the crucial role of sleep in maintaining health and memory. Cognitive decline often correlates with disrupted sleep rhythms, such as slow waves and sleep spindles. Importantly, recent research suggests non-invasive brain stimulation can enhance these rhythms, potentially improving sleep efficiency and memory in the elderly.

The core objective is to apply a cost-effective, wearable device to restore the synchronization of slow waves and spindles. This device – developed by our commercial partner Clarity® and customized to use during sleep - uses light and sound as separate channels to entrain endogenous brain rhythms. Unlike medication, it promises a side-effect-free method to improve sleep and cognitive function. Enhancing natural sleep processes, this tool aims to mitigate cognitive decline and promote healthy aging, benefiting millions globally and easing healthcare system burdens.

Initially, the device will be tested on young, healthy participants to optimize audiovisual stimulation parameters that enhance slow wave-spindle coupling without disrupting sleep. Subsequent phases will evaluate the impact on overnight memory consolidation using standardized memory tests. Specifically, the experimental methodology involves a dedicated sleep laboratory at the University of Oxford, where participants will undergo two sessions of closed-loop audiovisual stimulation (CLAVS) or sham stimulation. The wearable device will deliver controlled sound and light stimuli to enhance slow wave-spindle coupling, with memory consolidation assessed through recall tests.

The urgency of this research is underscored by the projected increase in dementia cases worldwide, from 885,000 in the UK in 2019 to 139 million globally by 2050. Given the critical link between cognitive decline and sleep, this project offers a timely and promising intervention. The success of this research could pave the way for novel, large-scale therapeutic solutions, significantly improving the quality of life for the aging population.

 

Apply using course: DPhil in Experimental Psychology

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