CARMEN
January 7, 2024
1 min read

Deep Sleep Technologies and Sleep & Memory Lab UvA start at home trial insomnia

The University of Amsterdam's Sleep and Memory Lab conducts a groundbreaking study on sleep improvement using modeling closed-loop neurostimulation (M-CLNS).

Amsterdam, 1 March 2024 - We are excited to announce a pioneering study currently underway at the University of Amsterdam’s Sleep and Memory Lab. This research aims to improve sleep quality for individuals who report sleep difficulties, utilizing our innovative, proprietary technology called Closed-Loop Neurostimulation (M-CLNS).

The Problem
Sleep issues are increasingly common in today’s society, with over one-third of individuals in Western industrialized countries affected by insomnia. Sleep is crucial for both physical and mental health, and sleep disorders are associated with serious consequences, including increased morbidity, mortality, accidents, and workplace absenteeism.

Limitations of Current Treatments
Traditional treatments for insomnia, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBTi) and sleep medications, come with significant limitations. CBTi can be challenging to access and isn't always effective, while sleep medications often cause side effects, dependency, and lack proven long-term efficacy.

Our Innovative Solution: M CLNS
M CLNS is a cutting-edge, non-invasive technique that influences brain activity through EEG-driven sensory stimulation. Developed and optimized over eight years of research at the University of Amsterdam, this technology uses subtle, precisely timed sounds that synchronize with the natural sleep oscillations of NREM sleep. These sounds, undetectable to the sleeper, enhance sleep dynamics and protect against external disturbances, all without side effects.

Study Purpose
The primary objective of this study is to investigate the beneficial effects of delivering subtle, non-intrusive auditory cues during sleep within a home setting rather than a sleep lab.

Research methods and applications
To facilitate home use, we have adapted the advanced M-CLNS technology and measurement equipment from the lab to create a research-grade product suitable for in-home use. Participants wear a portable EEG headband with passive sensors to monitor brain activity during sleep. A tablet with custom software processes this signal, predicting the next optimal moment for stimulation with millisecond precision. The participant wears earphones to receive the sound stimulation while they sleep. Participants use the headband for a total of twelve nights, excluding weekends, and complete daily and weekly questionnaires on subjective sleep quality.

This study seeks to evaluate the clinical potential of M-CLNS-SO technology for individuals experiencing specific sleep difficulties.