How sleep disruption affects autism linked to genetic factors
Official title: Developmental sleep disruption interacts with underlying CHD8 genetic vulnerability in autism spectrum disorder
Funded at Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill · NIH-10790184 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how sleep problems in early life might affect children with autism, especially those with a specific gene, and it hopes to find ways to help improve their social skills and thinking by understanding the role of sleep.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chapel Hill, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $187,431 |
| NIH project number | 1R21MH135250-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10790184 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, particularly those experiencing significant sleep disruptions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder or those not experiencing sleep disruptions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between sleep disruption and autism spectrum disorder (ASD), particularly focusing on how early life sleep issues may interact with genetic vulnerabilities related to the CHD8 gene. The study utilizes animal models to explore how sleep disturbances can lead to long-lasting changes in social behavior and cognitive function. By understanding these interactions, the research aims to clarify whether sleep disruption is a core component of ASD or a consequence of it. The findings could provide insights into potential early interventions for children with ASD.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for managing sleep issues in children with autism, potentially enhancing their overall development and quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the impact of sleep disruption on autism through animal models, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Diering, Graham Hugh — Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill
- Study coordinator: Diering, Graham Hugh
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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.