The Use of Rhythmic Light Therapy to Entrain Gamma Oscillations and the Circadian System in Patients with Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias (ADRD)

Overview

The increasing prevalence of dementia, particularly Alzheimer's disease (AD), has prompted an urgent exploration of interventions for patients, particularly those with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI), who are at heightened risk of progressing to AD. This study investigates the impact of a non -pharmacological intervention involving tailored light, specifically 40 Hz light, on neural oscillations, cognition, and sleepiness in individuals with MCI and age-matched controls. Neural oscillations, notably gamma oscillations at 40 Hz, have shown promise in framing cognitive functions and their implications in AD pathology. Previous research in both animal models and humans has demonstrated the potential of 40 Hz oscillations in reducing AD pathology and influencing cognitive function. The posterior cingulate cortex and dorsal anterior cingulate cortex are emerging imaging markers we associated with AD, and alterations in cross -frequency bands have also been linked to such learning and memory impairments. We pioneer a novel intervention, using light to enhance circadian entrainment and administer neurostimulation, to improve sleep and cognition in older adults with MCI and mild AD residing at home or in care facilities. We observed a range of benefits from this light intervention on alertness and cognition, with consistent enhancement in brain response across all participants. Understanding the complexities of non -pharmacological interventions and their impact on cognitive functions is crucial for developing new therapeutic approaches. This study lays the groundwork for effective and non -invasive interventions targeting neural o scillations, offering promising avenues for the management of cognitive impairments, a venture that the US government alone spends $3.7 billion on.

Competition history

JSHS 2024 Category not listed

Resources

National JSHS abstract book

Related projects

ISEF · 2024