The sleeping brain: A window into Parkinson's and Lewy Body Disease

Host: Associate Professor Elie Matar

Thursday 26 November 2026, 12pm – 1pm

G03 Theatre, Ainsworth Building, 1 Wally’s Walk, Macquarie University

Overview

Parkinson’s and Lewy body dementia are often preceded by distinct sleep disturbances, such as acting out dreams. These symptoms can be distressing and are frequently misunderstood. This presentation will explore the biological link between sleep and these neurological diseases and why sleep may be an important window into brain health.

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Biography

Associate Professor Elie Matar is a neurologist, sleep physician, and NHMRC-funded clinician-scientist with research expertise in sleep medicine, cognitive neurology, and movement disorders. Dr Matar leads a multidisciplinary research program investigating the impact of sleep disturbance on the progression of Parkinsons disease and dementia with Lewy bodies.

Contact Us

For more details about the series, contact us at dvc.medicine.and.health@mq.edu.au.

Main campus

Wallumattagal Campus
Balaclava Road
Macquarie University NSW 2109

City campus

Angel Place
Level 24, 123 Pitt Street
Sydney NSW 2000

Event Contact

events@mq.edu.au

Acknowledgement of Country

We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land on which Macquarie University stands - the Wallumattagal Clan of the Dharug Nation - whose cultures and customs have nurtured, and continue to nurture, this land since time immemorial. We pay our respects to the Elders, past and present.