Investigating how a specific protein affects sleep and arousal control in the brain
Official title: A novel trans-synaptic adhesion complex as a regulator of hypocretin/orexin control of arousal
Funded at University of Connecticut Storrs · NIH-11026397 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a protein called C1QL3 in brain cells that help control sleep and wakefulness, to better understand how problems with the sleep system can lead to narcolepsy with cataplexy, which causes extreme sleepiness and sudden loss of muscle control, and the findings could help improve treatments for people with these sleep issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Connecticut Storrs NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Storrs-Mansfield, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $570,395 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS131664-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11026397 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with narcolepsy or those experiencing severe sleep disturbances.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with sleep disorders unrelated to hypocretin/orexin signaling may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of a protein called C1QL3 in neurons that regulate sleep and wakefulness. By studying animal models, the researchers aim to uncover how disruptions in the hypocretin/orexin system lead to conditions like narcolepsy with cataplexy, which causes severe sleep disturbances and loss of muscle control. The study will explore the molecular mechanisms behind these processes to identify potential targets for treatment. Patients may benefit from insights gained into the biological basis of their sleep disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for narcolepsy and related sleep disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the hypocretin/orexin system, but this specific approach is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Connecticut Storrs
Storrs-Mansfield, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Jackson, Alexander Choi — University of Connecticut Storrs
- Study coordinator: Jackson, Alexander Choi
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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.