Leptin moderates the relationship between sleep quality and memory function: A population-based study

Author(s)

Mosini, Amanda Cristina ; Adami, Luana Nayara Gallego ; Vallim, Julia Ribeiro da Silva ; Moyses-Oliveira, Mariana ; Poyares, Dalva ; Andersen, Monica L. ; Tufik, Sergio

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: Sleep Medicine; v. 117, p. 6-pg., 2024-03-26.

Abstract

Sleep is crucial for memory, as it promotes its encoding, consolidation, storage, and retrieval. Sleep periods following learning enhance memory consolidation. Leptin, a hormone that regulates appetite and energy balance, also influences memory and neuroplasticity. It plays a neurotrophic role in the hippocampus, enhancing synaptic function and promoting memory processes. Given these associations between sleep, memory, and leptin, this study aimed to evaluate the interplay between sleep quality, memory complaints and leptin levels. Using data from the Sao Paulo Epidemiologic Sleep Study (EPISONO) 2007 edition, we analyzed data from 881 participants who underwent evaluations for subjective sleep quality (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index), memory function (Prospective and Retrospective Memory Questionnaire), body mass index and plasmatic leptin levels. After confirming that subjects with poor sleep quality had more memory complaints in our cohort, we observed that leptin levels were increased in individuals with more memory complaints, but there was no association between leptin levels and sleep quality. Mediation analysis reinforced the direct effect of sleep quality on memory function, but leptin had no indirect effect as mediator over the sleep-memory association. Moderation analysis revealed that leptin acted as a moderator in the relationship between sleep quality and memory, with increased leptin levels enhancing the effect of sleep quality over memory function. These findings underscore the intricate interplay between sleep, memory, and metabolic factors like leptin, shedding light on potential mechanisms through which sleep influences memory and cognitive functions. Further research is needed to elucidate the exact mechanisms underlying these relationships and their implications for overall health and wellbeing. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 23/09760-0 - Identification of molecular profiles in the rare genetic syndrome associated with SYNGAP1 in isogenic neuronal models
• Grantee: Amanda Cristina Mosini
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Support Program for Fixating Young Doctors
• FAPESP's process: 21/09089-0 - High throughput genomic edition to investigate neurodevelopmental disorders using isogenic cellular models
• Grantee: Mariana Moysés Oliveira
• Support Opportunities: Research Grants - Young Investigators Grants
• FAPESP's process: 20/13467-8 - The relationship between obstructive sleep apnea and its comorbidities with the intestinal microbiome: interface with sexuality and reproductive function
• Grantee: Monica Levy Andersen
• Support Opportunities: Research Projects - Thematic Grants