How daily rhythms and reward systems affect health and disease
Interplay between circadian and reward pathways in homeostatic response and pathology
This study is looking at how our body's natural daily rhythms work with the brain's reward system and how this affects our health, especially in relation to Alzheimer's disease, to find new ways to help manage the condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Virginia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlottesville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10880599 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how our body's internal clock, which regulates daily rhythms, interacts with reward pathways in the brain. It aims to understand how these interactions influence health and contribute to conditions like Alzheimer's disease. By studying how external cues such as light and food affect these rhythms, the research seeks to uncover new insights into the mechanisms behind neurodegenerative diseases. Patients may benefit from findings that could lead to improved management strategies for Alzheimer's and related conditions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or those at risk of developing it.
Not a fit: Patients with non-neurodegenerative conditions or those not affected by circadian rhythm disruptions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or managing Alzheimer's disease by optimizing daily rhythms and reward systems.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding circadian rhythms and their impact on health, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Charlottesville, United States
- University of Virginia — Charlottesville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Guler, Ali — University of Virginia
- Study coordinator: Guler, Ali
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.