Investigating how light sensitivity affects sleep and mood in bipolar disorder

Light Sensitivity in Bipolar Disorder: A Potential Driver of Variability in Sleep, Mood and Energy

['FUNDING_R21'] · UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN AT ANN ARBOR · NIH-11079479

This study is looking at how being sensitive to light might affect sleep, mood, and energy levels in people with bipolar disorder, and it hopes to find ways to improve treatment based on these findings.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN AT ANN ARBOR (nih funded)
Locations1 site (ANN ARBOR, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11079479 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research explores the relationship between light sensitivity and the variability of sleep, mood, and energy levels in individuals with bipolar disorder. By using a direct measure called the post-illumination pupil response (PIPR), the study aims to better understand how light affects the brain's regulation of mood and circadian rhythms. Participants will undergo assessments to evaluate their sensitivity to light and how it correlates with their mood and sleep patterns. The findings could lead to improved treatment strategies for managing bipolar disorder.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who have been diagnosed with bipolar disorder.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have bipolar disorder or are under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for bipolar disorder by addressing light sensitivity and its impact on mood and sleep.

How similar studies have performed: While some studies have explored light sensitivity in bipolar disorder, this research aims to utilize a novel approach with the PIPR measurement, making it a potentially groundbreaking investigation.

Where this research is happening

ANN ARBOR, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.