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Updated: Jul 16, 2026

Measuring Neural Mechanisms Underlying Sleep-Dependent Memory Consolidation During Naps in Early Childhood
Published on: October 2, 2019
Donepezil-induced REM sleep augmentation enhances memory performance in elderly, healthy persons
M Schredl1, B Weber, M L Leins
1Sleep Laboratory, Central Institute of Mental Health, P.O. Box 122120, 68072, Mannheim, Germany. schredl@as200.zi-mannheim.de
Abstract:
Previous research in younger individuals has shown that acetylcholinesterase inhibitors may enhance REM sleep. The present study indicates that in the elderly, donepezil, an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor, also exerts a marked effect on REM sleep parameters--percentage of REM sleep and REM density were increased whereas REM latency was reduced. In addition, we also found a correlation between memory performance and REM sleep. Based on these findings, we conclude that there is an interrelationship between cognitive performance and amount of REM sleep in elderly humans as has been previously shown in animals and young adults.
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