How sleep patterns and light exposure affect adolescents
Adolescent circadian misalignment: Mechanistic studies of sleep and light
This study is looking at how early school start times and late bedtimes affect teenagers' sleep and is testing whether morning bright light can help them feel more rested and healthier.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rush University Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10773166 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the natural sleep-wake cycles of adolescents are disrupted by early school start times and late bedtimes. It explores the effects of bright light exposure in the morning to help realign these sleep patterns, aiming to improve sleep quality and overall health. The study involves measuring sleep habits and light exposure to determine the best times for light therapy to help adolescents wake up feeling more rested. By understanding these mechanisms, the research seeks to address issues like sleep deprivation, mood disorders, and substance use among teenagers.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents aged 12 to 20 who experience sleep difficulties or circadian misalignment.
Not a fit: Patients who are not adolescents or those without sleep issues may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved sleep quality and mental health outcomes for adolescents.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that light therapy can effectively improve sleep patterns in adults, suggesting potential success in adolescents as well.
Where this research is happening
Chicago, United States
- Rush University Medical Center — Chicago, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Crowley Mcwilliam, Stephanie — Rush University Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Crowley Mcwilliam, Stephanie
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.