How breast tumors affect sleep patterns

Mechanism Underlying Sleep Disruption by Mammary Tumors

['FUNDING_R21'] · WEST VIRGINIA UNIVERSITY · NIH-10817802

This study is looking at how breast cancer tumors might affect sleep by exploring a hormone called ghrelin, which could be linked to sleep problems in patients, with the goal of finding ways to help improve sleep for those dealing with breast cancer.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorWEST VIRGINIA UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (MORGANTOWN, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10817802 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how mammary tumors disrupt sleep by examining the physiological mechanisms involved. It focuses on the role of ghrelin, a hormone that may increase due to the presence of tumors, and its effect on neurons that regulate sleep. By using pharmacological and genetic techniques, the study aims to uncover the relationship between tumor-induced changes in hormone levels and sleep disorders in breast cancer patients. Understanding these mechanisms could lead to better management of sleep issues in this population.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with breast cancer who are experiencing sleep disturbances.

Not a fit: Patients without a diagnosis of breast cancer or those not experiencing sleep issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for sleep disorders in breast cancer patients, enhancing their overall quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of examining ghrelin in relation to sleep disruption in breast cancer is novel, related research has shown that hormonal changes can impact sleep in cancer patients.

Where this research is happening

MORGANTOWN, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Breast Cancer, Cancers, neoplasm/cancer

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.