Investigating how brain cells regulate sleep using zebrafish
Official title: Genetic and Neuronal Mechanisms that Regulate Zebrafish Sleep - DIVERSITY SUPPLEMENT
Funded at California Institute of Technology · NIH-11087989 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how special brain cells called astrocytes help control sleep using baby zebrafish, and it hopes to find new ways to understand and treat sleep problems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | California Institute of Technology NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pasadena, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $81,412 |
| NIH project number | 3R35NS122172-04S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11087989 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from sleep disorders or those interested in the biological mechanisms of sleep.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have sleep disorders or are not interested in the biological aspects of sleep may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the role of astrocytes, a type of brain cell, in regulating sleep by using larval zebrafish as a model. The study employs advanced imaging techniques to observe brain activity during sleep and wakefulness, allowing researchers to understand how these cells contribute to sleep regulation. By manipulating astrocyte activity through various experimental methods, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms behind sleep homeostasis. This could lead to new insights into sleep disorders and their treatment.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for sleep disorders, improving the quality of life for affected patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding sleep mechanisms using animal models, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
California Institute of Technology
Pasadena, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Prober, David Aaron — California Institute of Technology
- Study coordinator: Prober, David Aaron
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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.