Effects of Spermidine Supplementation on Sleep and Memory in Older Adults with Early Cognitive Decline

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the effects of spermidine supplementation on sleep quality and memory consolidation during sleep in older adults aged 55 to 70 years with Subjective Cognitive Decline SCD or Mild Cognitive Impairment MCI. These conditions represent early stages of cognitive decline and carry an increased risk of dementia. Impaired sleep is a modifiable factor linked to cognitive decline, and this study aims to explore whether improving sleep architecture through spermidine intake can help preserve cognitive function in these populations. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either spermidine supplements 6 mg per day, given as three 2 mg sachets or a placebo identical in appearance and taste, for 12 weeks. Before and after this period, overnight sleep will be measured with EEG to assess sleep quality focusing on slow-wave sleep and sleep spindle activity. Memory tests will be conducted around these sleep assessments to evaluate sleep-dependent memory consolidation. A group of healthy elderly individuals will also be assessed for comparison but will not receive any supplements. During the study, participants will wear actigraphs to monitor sleep and activity cycles. Blood samples will be collected before and after supplementation to analyze metabolic, neurodegeneration-related, and autophagy-associated biomarkers. Brain MRI scans will exclude participants with other neurological conditions. The study will measure changes in sleep quality, cognitive performance, and biological markers to understand spermidines potential role in supporting brain health and aging. Total participation will include baseline and 12-week follow-up assessments along with intermediate biological sampling.

Autophagy-Enhancers to Reduce Sleep Disturbances