Investigating how Neuropeptide S affects sleep and anxiety

Neuropeptide S and arousal

NIH-funded research Stanford University · NIH-10861805

This study is looking at how a special brain chemical called Neuropeptide S affects sleep and wakefulness, especially in relation to anxiety, using specially designed mice to help us understand sleep problems and anxiety better.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionStanford University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Stanford, United States)
Project IDNIH-10861805 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores the role of Neuropeptide S (NPS) in regulating sleep and wakefulness, particularly its effects on anxiety and arousal. By using specially engineered mice, the study aims to map the neural circuits involved in NPS signaling and how they influence sleep architecture. The researchers will employ advanced techniques such as viral tracing and fiber photometry to observe the activity of NPS-expressing neurons during different states of sleep and in response to emotional stimuli. This approach could lead to a better understanding of sleep disorders and anxiety-related conditions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals experiencing sleep disorders or anxiety disorders.

Not a fit: Patients with no sleep or anxiety issues may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for sleep disorders and anxiety, improving the quality of life for affected patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding the role of neuropeptides in sleep regulation, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Stanford, 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.
Conditions Anxiety Disorders
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.