How animals' internal clocks influence their behavior

Circadian output mechanisms in nocturnal and diurnal animals

NIH-funded research Texas A&m University · NIH-10892220

This study is looking at how the body's internal clock influences daily habits like eating and mating in animals, and it's for anyone curious about how our brains help us keep a routine.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionTexas A&m University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (College Station, United States)
Project IDNIH-10892220 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how the internal circadian clocks of animals affect their behaviors related to daily activities such as eating and mating. By studying the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN), which regulates these rhythms, the researchers aim to understand how signals from the SCN interact with other brain cells to produce various behavioral patterns. The project will utilize advanced techniques, including genomic editing, to explore the molecular and neuronal mechanisms that contribute to these rhythms over a five-year period.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include individuals experiencing circadian rhythm sleep disorders or related affective disorders.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to circadian rhythms or those not experiencing any sleep or behavioral issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into how circadian rhythms affect health and behavior, potentially informing treatments for sleep disorders and other related conditions.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in understanding circadian rhythms and their impact on behavior, indicating that this approach is grounded in established scientific principles.

Where this research is happening

College Station, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Affective DisordersCardiovascular Diseases
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.