The Effect of Dexmedetomidine on Glymphatic Function in the Human Brain

Official Summary

Alzheimer's disease is linked in part to the buildup of harmful proteins in the brain, including amyloid and tau. Most current treatments aim to remove these proteins directly. This study explores a different approach: helping the brain clear waste more effectively during sleep. The investigators will test whether certain medications can safely boost the brain's natural "cleaning system," known as the glymphatic system, in healthy older adults. Participants will receive controlled sleep treatments and blood tests to measure protein clearance. If successful, this strategy could support new therapies that work alongside existing Alzheimer's treatments.

Study Design

• Study Type: INTERVENTIONAL
• Allocation: NON_RANDOMIZED
• Model: CROSSOVER
• Masking: DOUBLE
• Enrollment: 31 participants

Interventions

• DRUG: Dexmedetomidine — Treatment
• DRUG: Dexmedetomidine and Midodrine — Treatment
• OTHER: Placebo — Placebo

Primary Outcomes

• Mean change from baseline in plasma Aβ42/Aβ40 ratio following dexmedetomidine treatment (Pre/post 4-hour sleep period)
• Mean change from baseline in plasma Aβ42/Aβ40 ratio following dexmedetomidine and midodrine treatment (Pre/post 4-hour sleep period)
• Mean change from baseline in plasma %p-tau217 following dexmedetomidine treatment (Pre/post 4-hour sleep period)
• Mean change from baseline in plasma %p-tau217 following dexmedetomidine and midodrine treatment (Pre/post 4-hour sleep period)

Trial Locations

• Stanford University Medical Center, Stanford, California, United States
• Washington State University, Spokane, Washington, United States

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