How the front part of the brain controls REM (dream) sleep
Cortical Regulation of REM Sleep
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA · NIH-11237138
This project looks at how the prefrontal cortex controls REM (dream) sleep and rapid eye movements, with the goal of linking those brain changes to mood disorders like depression.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11237138 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This work uses mouse models to map how the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) influences the start, maintenance, and eye-movement density of REM sleep. Scientists will watch neurons with in vivo calcium imaging and use optogenetics to turn specific brain cells on or off while recording REM sleep and rapid eye movements. They will analyze how changing mPFC activity alters REM patterns that are often different in people with depression. Results are intended to point to specific brain circuits that could be targeted in future human studies or treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with major depressive disorder who show abnormal REM sleep patterns (for example, unusually frequent rapid eye movements) would be the most likely candidates for related future clinical work.
Not a fit: People whose sleep issues are unrelated to REM disturbances, or individuals without mood disorders, are less likely to benefit directly from this project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could identify brain circuit targets to help normalize REM sleep in people with depression and improve mood and sleep quality.
How similar studies have performed: Prior human and animal studies have linked REM changes to depression and mapped brainstem REM control, but direct cortical regulation by the prefrontal cortex is a newer finding mainly supported by animal data.
Where this research is happening
PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA — PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: WEBER, FRANZ L — UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA
- Study coordinator: WEBER, FRANZ L
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.
Conditions: Affective Disorders, Disease