How brain support cells (astrocytes) affect sleep in Fragile X
Contribution of Glia to Sleep/Wake Disturbances in FXS
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF NEBRASKA MEDICAL CENTER · NIH-11309580
This project tests whether astrocytes — brain support cells — cause the sleep problems seen in Fragile X syndrome using animal models.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF NEBRASKA MEDICAL CENTER (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (OMAHA, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11309580 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Researchers will record brain rhythms and behavior over time in mouse models of Fragile X to map sleep patterns across development and adulthood. They will compare animals missing the Fragile X gene in all cells, animals with the gene deleted only in astrocytes, and animals where the gene is restored in astrocytes. Using live calcium imaging and telemetry, the team will measure astrocyte activity during sleep and wake states and link those signals to sleep architecture. The goal is to determine if increased astrocyte calcium signaling drives the sleep disturbances seen in Fragile X models.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with Fragile X syndrome who experience persistent sleep disturbances would be the eventual group most likely to benefit or be considered for related future trials.
Not a fit: People without Fragile X or whose sleep problems are caused by unrelated medical issues (for example, primary sleep apnea or medication side effects) may not benefit from findings focused on Fragile X astrocyte biology.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to new targets for treatments to improve sleep and brain health in people with Fragile X and related autism spectrum conditions.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research shows astrocytes influence sleep and cell-based Fragile X studies show altered astrocyte calcium, but linking astrocyte signaling to sleep problems in living Fragile X models is a newer approach.
Where this research is happening
OMAHA, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF NEBRASKA MEDICAL CENTER — OMAHA, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: DUNAEVSKY, ANNA — UNIVERSITY OF NEBRASKA MEDICAL CENTER
- Study coordinator: DUNAEVSKY, ANNA
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 below.