Investigating how sleep and metabolism interact at the neural level

Circuit level analysis of sleep-metabolism interactions

['FUNDING_R01'] · TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY · NIH-11007240

This study is looking at how sleep and metabolism are connected by exploring how certain genes and brain cells in fruit flies react to changes in food availability, which could help us understand how our bodies manage energy and sleep.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorTEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (COLLEGE STATION, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11007240 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research explores the complex relationship between sleep and metabolism by examining how specific genes and neurons influence sleep patterns in response to metabolic changes. Using fruit flies as a model organism, the study will analyze how food deprivation affects sleep and activity cycles, leveraging advanced techniques like single-cell physiology and sequencing. The goal is to uncover the molecular mechanisms that govern these interactions, particularly focusing on the role of neurons that express the neuropeptide Leucokinin and how they communicate with adipose tissue regarding energy stores.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 who experience sleep disturbances or metabolic issues.

Not a fit: Patients with stable sleep patterns and no metabolic concerns may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into sleep disorders and metabolic diseases, potentially informing better treatment strategies for patients.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of this research is novel, previous studies have shown promising results in understanding the links between sleep and metabolism.

Where this research is happening

COLLEGE STATION, 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.