Investigating how electrical connections in the brain affect sleep and sensory perception
Official title: The role of electrical synapses in neural dynamics involved in sleep/wake and sensory perception
Funded at VA Boston Health Care System · NIH-10951513 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called connexin 36 affects sleep and how we process what we sense around us, aiming to help people with sleep disorders and cognitive issues by understanding how this protein works in a key part of the brain.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | VA Boston Health Care System NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | October 1, 2023 |
| Project end | September 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| NIH project number | 5I01BX006105-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10951513 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing sleep disorders or related neurological issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without sleep disorders or neurological conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the role of a specific protein, connexin 36, in the brain's ability to regulate sleep and sensory processing. By studying how electrical synapses formed by this protein influence brain activity, researchers aim to understand the underlying mechanisms of sleep disorders and cognitive functions. The study focuses on a particular brain region known as the thalamic reticular nucleus, which is crucial for controlling brain rhythms associated with sleep and sensory experiences. The approach involves examining how disruptions in these electrical connections can affect overall brain function and behavior.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights and treatments for sleep disorders and related neurological conditions.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that understanding electrical synapses can provide valuable insights into brain function, suggesting potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
VA Boston Health Care System
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Basheer, Radhika — VA Boston Health Care System
- Study coordinator: Basheer, Radhika
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.