How sleep affects gene expression and chromatin regulation in vertebrates.

The role of sleep on chromatin and transcriptional regulation across vertebrate evolution.

NIH-funded research Washington State University · NIH-11059832

This study is looking at how not getting enough sleep affects our genes and cells in different animals, including humans, to help us understand why sleep is so important for our health.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionWashington State University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Pullman, United States)
Project IDNIH-11059832 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of sleep in regulating gene expression and chromatin stability across different vertebrate species. By comparing the effects of sleep loss on transcriptional responses in various tissues, including the brain, the study aims to uncover evolutionary conserved mechanisms of sleep. The researchers will utilize advanced techniques such as single-cell transcriptomic and epigenomic analysis to gain insights into how different cell types respond to sleep deprivation. This approach will help clarify the relationship between sleep, gene expression, and chromatin changes at a cellular level.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research would be individuals experiencing sleep disturbances or disorders that may affect gene expression and overall health.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to sleep or those who do not have any sleep-related issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of sleep's biological functions and its impact on health, potentially leading to new treatments for sleep-related disorders.

How similar studies have performed: While there is existing evidence supporting the importance of sleep in gene regulation, this specific comparative approach across vertebrate species is novel and has not been extensively tested.

Where this research is happening

Pullman, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.