Scientists zap sleeping brains to unlock memory secrets

NCT ID NCT05452122

Recruiting now Knowledge-focused Sponsor: University of California, Los Angeles Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study looks at how memories are processed during sleep by recording brain activity in epilepsy patients. Researchers will use gentle electrical and sound stimulation during sleep to see if it changes memory recall. The goal is to understand the brain's natural memory consolidation process, not to treat a disease.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: Auditory and electrical stimulation
What this could lead to: If successful, this could reveal how sleep strengthens memories and point toward new ways to improve memory in conditions like Alzheimer's.
What could go wrong: This is an early-stage observational study with no direct treatment goal. Results may not apply to people without epilepsy, and stimulation effects could be small or inconsistent.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

epilepsy

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

MEMORY, DELAYED

Contacts and locations

Locations

University of California Los Angeles
RECRUITING

Los Angeles, California, 90095, United States

More trials for these conditions

Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.