How microbes influence the body's internal clock
Microbial regulation of vertebrate circadian clocks
This study is looking at how exposure to different types of microbes can influence our body's natural daily rhythms, using zebrafish to see how these tiny creatures respond in real-time, which could help us understand more about our own body clocks.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Santa Cruz NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Santa Cruz, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10872167 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between microbial exposure and the regulation of circadian rhythms, which are the body's natural 24-hour cycles. By studying how different concentrations of microbes affect cellular signaling pathways, the research aims to uncover new innate regulators of the circadian clock. Utilizing zebrafish as a model organism, the project will employ advanced imaging techniques to observe real-time responses of circadian rhythms in a living organism, providing insights that may not be possible with traditional animal models.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing circadian rhythm disorders or those interested in the effects of microbial exposure on health.
Not a fit: Patients with stable circadian rhythms and no history of sleep or metabolic disorders may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for managing health conditions related to circadian rhythm disruptions, such as sleep disorders and metabolic diseases.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of linking microbial exposure to circadian rhythms is novel, related research has shown that circadian rhythms can be influenced by environmental factors, suggesting potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Santa Cruz, United States
- University of California Santa Cruz — Santa Cruz, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kimmey, Jacqueline Misum — University of California Santa Cruz
- Study coordinator: Kimmey, Jacqueline Misum
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.