Exploring how frontotemporal dementia affects sleep and circadian rhythms
Official title: Molecular pathways linking frontotemporal dementia and circadian dysfunction
Funded at Thomas Jefferson University · NIH-11051191 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how frontotemporal dementia affects sleep and daily rhythms by using fruit flies to explore the genetic changes that might link these sleep problems to the progression of dementia, helping us understand how to improve sleep for those affected.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Thomas Jefferson University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | March 7, 2024 |
| Project end | February 28, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $195,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R21NS135762-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11051191 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia or related neurodegenerative conditions, particularly those experiencing sleep disruptions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other forms of dementia that do not involve circadian dysfunction may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between frontotemporal dementia (FTD) and disruptions in circadian rhythms and sleep patterns. By using a model organism, Drosophila, the study aims to identify molecular pathways that link these neurodegenerative conditions to sleep disturbances. The researchers will focus on a specific genetic mutation associated with FTD, examining how it affects biological processes related to the internal circadian clock. This could lead to a better understanding of how sleep issues may influence the progression of dementia.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for managing sleep disturbances in patients with frontotemporal dementia, potentially improving their quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of linking FTD with circadian dysfunction through genetic pathways is novel, related research has shown that addressing sleep disturbances can positively impact neurodegenerative disease outcomes.
Where this research is happening
-
Thomas Jefferson University
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Koh, Kyunghee — Thomas Jefferson University
- Study coordinator: Koh, Kyunghee
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.