How sleep deprivation affects thinking and mood
Mechanisms of information-processing and executive deficits caused by sleep deprivation
This study looks at how not getting enough sleep can affect thinking and increase the chances of feeling depressed, using animal models to learn more about what happens in the brain when we don’t sleep well, with hopes of finding new ways to help people who struggle with mood issues related to sleep loss.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Utah NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Salt Lake City, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10886925 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the effects of sleep deprivation on cognitive functions and the risk of developing depression. By using animal models, the study aims to understand the biological mechanisms behind these issues, particularly focusing on how sleep loss alters brain chemistry. The researchers have developed specific tasks to better mimic the cognitive challenges faced by humans who experience sleep deprivation. The findings could lead to new therapeutic strategies for managing mood disorders linked to sleep loss.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing sleep deprivation and related cognitive or mood disorders.
Not a fit: Patients who do not experience sleep deprivation or have unrelated psychiatric conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for depression and cognitive impairments associated with sleep deprivation.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the effects of sleep deprivation on cognitive functions, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Salt Lake City, United States
- University of Utah — Salt Lake City, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bortolato, Marco — University of Utah
- Study coordinator: Bortolato, Marco
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.