Scientists scan brains to see how sleep flushes out waste

NCT ID NCT02311374

First seen Oct 31, 2025 · Last updated May 16, 2026 · Updated 26 times

Summary

This study used MRI scans to see if the brain removes waste more effectively during sleep than when awake. Forty healthy adults aged 18 to 60 were monitored while sleeping or staying awake inside the scanner. The goal was to understand the glymphatic system, which helps clear harmful buildup from the brain. No treatments or medications were tested.

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Contacts and locations

Locations

  • National Institutes of Health Clinical Center

    Bethesda, Maryland, 20892, United States

Conditions

Explore the condition pages connected to this study.