# Thalamocortical Temporal Dynamics Underlying Memory Consolidation during NREM Sleep

> **NIH NIH R56** · FLORIDA STATE UNIVERSITY · 2024 · $582,108

## Abstract

Project Summary
Our long-term objective is to determine how thalamic networks contribute to memory consolidation. The goal of
this project is to investigate the basic mechanisms by which the dynamics of spike activity in cognitive thalamic
networks contribute to memory consolidation. During non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep, spindle
oscillations in thalamocortical networks and ripple oscillations in the hippocampus facilitate memory
consolidation. However, the precise role of thalamic spindle activation dynamics in memory consolidation
remains unclear. We aim to answer two basic questions. First, we will use optogenetics and electrophysiology
to induce spindle-like activity in the thalamus of rats after training them in a memory task to understand how
different patterns of thalamocortical activation facilitate sleep-dependent consolidation. Complementary
computational modeling will help us understand the impact of spindle-like thalamic activation on cortical circuits
and spindles. Second, we aim to determine how the thalamus facilitates hippocampal ripple oscillations and
memory consolidation. We will use behavioral testing, extracellular recordings, and closed-loop optogenetics, to
control thalamic spiking activity after detection of ripple oscillations in the hippocampus. This approach will
enable us to assess the causal contribution of the thalamus to the fundamental NREM sleep oscillations that
facilitate hippocampal-neocortical interactions and sleep-dependent memory consolidation. Understanding the
role of thalamocortical neural dynamics in memory consolidation is clinically relevant for developing new
interventions for neuropsychiatric disorders are associated with sleep and memory disruption.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 11049542
- **Project number:** 1R56MH132637-01A1
- **Recipient organization:** FLORIDA STATE UNIVERSITY
- **Principal Investigator:** Carmen Varela
- **Activity code:** R56 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2024
- **Award amount:** $582,108
- **Award type:** 1
- **Project period:** 2024-05-01 → 2026-04-30

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/11049542

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 11049542, Thalamocortical Temporal Dynamics Underlying Memory Consolidation during NREM Sleep (1R56MH132637-01A1). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-24 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/11049542. Licensed CC0.

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