How early sleep and sensory experiences affect social behavior in prairie voles.
Official title: Role of early-life sleep and sensory environment in shaping the development of affiliative behavior and PV-interneurons in the somatosensory cortex of the highly social prairie vole.
Funded at Oregon Health & Science University · NIH-10995110 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how sleep and sensory experiences early in life affect social behaviors in prairie voles, which are known for being very social, to help us understand how sleep problems might influence social interactions in people, especially those with autism.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Oregon Health & Science University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Portland, United States) |
| Project start | December 1, 2024 |
| Project end | November 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $48,974 |
| NIH project number | 1F31MH136684-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10995110 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, particularly those experiencing challenges with social interactions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without autism spectrum disorder or those who do not exhibit social behavior challenges may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the impact of early-life sleep and sensory environments on the development of social behaviors in prairie voles, a species known for their strong social bonds. By studying these animals, the research aims to understand how disruptions in sleep can affect the brain's neural circuitry related to social interactions. The project utilizes advanced computational tools to analyze behaviors and neuronal activity, focusing on specific brain cells that play a role in social engagement. The findings could provide insights into the biological underpinnings of social behavior, particularly in the context of autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for improving social behaviors in individuals with autism spectrum disorder.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding social behavior through similar approaches, although this specific focus on prairie voles is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Oregon Health & Science University
Portland, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Milman, Noah Emery Pollak — Oregon Health & Science University
- Study coordinator: Milman, Noah Emery Pollak
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.