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Session Schedule

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0:00:00
Introduction

0:00:25
Gut-based intervention strategies for neuroprotection in sleep disorders
Yuhua Yang (Hong Kong)

0:25:45
Effects of CPAP on neuroimaging biomarkers and cognition: A multi-center randomized controlled trial in a middle-aged Chinese population
Shankai Yin (China)

0:45:05
Sleep apnea intervention to reduce risk of Alzheimer’s Disease and related dementias
Andrew Varga (United States)

1:04:35
Treating insomnia in mild cognitive impairment in the community: Insights from an online CBI-I feasibility trial
Sharon Naismith (Australia)

1:22:40
Question and answer

Summary
Sleep is critical for brain health across the lifespan. This symposium will highlight innovative intervention trials aimed at improving sleep in diverse populations, with the ultimate goal of enhancing cognitive health and reducing the risk of cognitive impairment, including Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD). Four speakers from across the globe will present cutting-edge findings, demonstrating the potential of tailored sleep interventions to enhance brain health while addressing critical challenges in trial design, implementation, and accessibility.

Sleep disorders, including sleep deprivation and insomnia, are highly prevalent among adolescents. These issues significantly impair daytime functioning, cognitive abilities, and academic performance. Enhancing sleep quality and duration is crucial for improving cognitive performance, which, in turn, can lead to better academic outcomes. Dr. Rachel Chan (Hong Kong SAR) will open the symposium by presenting findings from clinical trials designed to improve both sleep quantity and quality in adolescents experiencing sleep difficulties. The presentation will examine the subsequent effects of these interventions on cognitive functions. Furthermore, it will highlight the potential for improved sleep to positively influence academic performance. Dr. Shankai Yin (China) will present data from a multi-center randomized controlled trial (RCT) that evaluated the effects of CPAP therapy on brain health in middle-aged individuals with OSA and normal cognition. This study utilized comprehensive neuroimaging and cognitive assessments over a one-year period, revealing that CPAP therapy improved cortical thickness and functional connectivity within the brain’s default mode network. These findings underscore the potential of OSA treatment to prevent brain aging and enhance cognitive health during midlife, a key period for intervention to mitigate future risks of cognitive decline. Dr. Ricardo Osorio (USA) will share insights from the ESSENTIAL trial, a multi-center study targeting cognitively normal older adults with OSA to assess the potential of sleep interventions in reducing ADRD risk. The presentation will highlight challenges such as the selection of appropriate study population, outcomes, and intervention approach. In addition, ethical concerns that arise in the context of a randomized trial in OSA patients will be discussed. Barriers and facilitators in the context of conducting this ongoing trial will be highlighted. Dr. Stone will discuss strategies for overcoming these challenges and provide valuable lessons for designing effective clinical trials that link OSA with ADRD prevention. Finally, Dr. Sharon Naismith (Australia) will conclude the symposium by presenting key learnings from a nationwide study using online recruitment methods to target people with cognitive impairment and insomnia symptoms. The talk will provide insights into online recruitment enablers and barriers, as well as adherence, and ability to target individuals from regional/rural areas and from diverse backgrounds.

Together, these presentations will underscore the critical role of sleep in maintaining brain health from adolescence through older adulthood. The symposium will also address practical and ethical considerations in conducting sleep intervention trials, offering a roadmap for future research design and implementation to maximize public health impact.