Brain waste clearance during menopause transition

The glymphatic system, which clears waste from the brain and is most active during sleep, plays a crucial role in maintaining brain health. This system is altered in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, and is thought to contribute to their relentless progression. The incidence of neurodegenerative diseases increase with age and interestingly, they all exhibit significant sex differences in their prevalence and/or progression. Menopause affects all females. Increasing evidence links the menopause transition (i.e., the ~10 year period between pre- and post- menopause) to various neurological symptoms, including insomnia, cognitive decline, and a higher prevalence of diseases. Despite these findings, our knowledge of brain clearance during the menopause transition is non-existent. This project offers an exciting opportunity to explore a critical gap in our understanding of brain health and disease, making it a promising avenue for students interested in neuroscience and women's health.