Categories: Health

Understanding Dementia: Canine Sleep Patterns May Offer Clues

Researchers at North Carolina State University (NCSU) have discovered that senior dogs with cognitive decline experience disruptions similar to those found in people with Alzheimer’s disease. This study suggests that dogs could provide a good model for research on Alzheimer’s.

The Study

The researchers recorded the brain waves of 28 senior dogs, some with cognitive decline and some without, while they napped. Interestingly, dogs with signs of dementia showed stronger beta wave activity while napping, which is linked to wakefulness. This means that their brains were not entirely asleep. Additionally, dogs with signs of dementia seemed to experience a significant loss in slow-wave sleep, which is characteristic of deep sleep and linked to the activity of the glymphatic system. This system removes protein waste products from the cerebrospinal fluid, and a reduction in slow oscillations in people with Alzheimer’s has been associated with poorer memory consolidation during deep sleep.

The Implications

Older pets with cognitive decline tend to suffer more from sleep difficulties and daytime sleepiness. It is still uncertain whether these sleep disturbances are triggering cognitive decline or if cognitive decline is causing the sleep disturbances. The researchers suspect it is a bit of both.

Researchers plan to monitor this vicious cycle in younger dogs as they age to search for early markers of cognitive decline in pets that could also be relevant to their owners. This could lead to therapeutic trials in dogs that help to direct the development of treatments for people.

The study provides valuable insights into dementia and the importance of sleep patterns in cognitive decline.

AddThis Website Tools
adam1

Recent Posts

Unlocking the Secrets of Cells: A Breakthrough in Cell Mechanics

Cells form the foundation of all living organisms, and gaining insights into their inner workings…

20 hours ago

Revolutionizing Disease Control: The Future of Mosquito Population Management

Mosquitoes are not just an irritating nuisance; they are deadly vectors that transmit a range…

20 hours ago

The Surprising Truth About Sustainable Packaging: Glass Isn’t Always Greener

In the quest for sustainable living, consumers often hold fast to the belief that glass…

20 hours ago

Revolutionary Revelations: Four New Exoplanets Orbiting Barnard’s Star

For over a century, the astral mystery surrounding Barnard's Star, a unique red dwarf just…

21 hours ago

Unlocking Catalysis: The Power of Atomic Precision in OER Technology

In the realm of catalysis, particularly in the context of oxygen evolution reactions (OER), understanding…

23 hours ago

Empowering Health: The Surprising Benefits of Regular Blood Donation

Recent research has illuminated a groundbreaking connection between blood donation frequency and the health of…

1 day ago