How sleep patterns are affected by temperature changes in the environment

Sleep and Brain Thermoregulation

NIH-funded research VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System · NIH-10915920

This study looks at how different temperatures affect sleep, comparing people who live traditionally as hunter-gatherers with those in modern societies, and it hopes to help us understand sleep problems like insomnia better.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Los Angeles, United States)
Project IDNIH-10915920 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how variations in environmental temperature influence sleep patterns, particularly focusing on the differences between hunter-gatherer populations and those in industrial societies. By studying sleep in rats exposed to natural temperature rhythms versus constant temperatures, the research aims to understand the impact of these conditions on sleep quality and duration. The findings may shed light on the mechanisms behind sleep disorders like insomnia and how they relate to temperature regulation in the brain.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing sleep disturbances, particularly those living in environments with constant temperature control.

Not a fit: Patients who do not experience sleep issues or those living in natural temperature environments may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights and treatments for sleep disorders, improving sleep quality for many patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that environmental factors significantly impact sleep quality, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Los Angeles, 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 2026-06-09 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.