How the brain's internal clock interacts with sensory signals
Official title: Molecular basis of circadian and sensory integration in neuronal clocks
Funded at Cincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr · NIH-11090869 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how our brain's internal clock uses light to help control things like sleep and mood, and it's for anyone interested in understanding how disruptions in this clock can lead to sleep problems and emotional issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Cincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cincinnati, United States) |
| Project start | May 8, 2025 |
| Project end | March 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $451,250 |
| NIH project number | 1R35GM158164-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11090869 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals experiencing sleep disruptions or mood disorders related to circadian rhythm disturbances.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without any sleep or mood disorders may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the brain's internal clock, located in a specific area called the suprachiasmatic nucleus, integrates sensory information, particularly light, to regulate various bodily functions. It aims to understand the molecular mechanisms behind circadian rhythms and how disruptions in these processes can lead to sleep disorders and mood issues. By studying the expression of clock genes and their synchronization with environmental cues, the research seeks to uncover new insights into the relationship between our biological clocks and overall health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for sleep disorders and mood disorders by improving our understanding of how to regulate circadian rhythms.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding circadian rhythms and their impact on health, indicating that this approach has potential for significant findings.
Where this research is happening
-
Cincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr
Cincinnati, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fernandez, Diego Carlos — Cincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr
- Study coordinator: Fernandez, Diego Carlos
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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.