Investigating how specific brain receptors affect sleep and the side effects of sleep medications.
Using CRISPR-Cas9 genetic abscission in vivo to study the role of GABA-A receptors of the thalamic reticular nucleus in regulating non-rapid-eye-movement sleep and drug induced sleep
This study is looking at how certain brain receptors affect sleep and how sleep medications work, especially for veterans who often have trouble sleeping, using advanced gene editing techniques to better understand the science behind it.
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 ID | NIH-10767119 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of GABA-A receptors in the thalamic reticular nucleus and their impact on non-rapid-eye-movement sleep and the effects of sleep medications. Using advanced CRISPR gene editing techniques, the study aims to dissect the neural circuitry involved in sleep regulation. The research will involve training in specialized techniques to validate genetic manipulations and explore how these receptors influence sleep patterns and medication efficacy, particularly in veterans who experience high rates of sleep disturbances.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are veterans suffering from sleep disturbances related to conditions such as insomnia, PTSD, or traumatic brain injury.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have sleep disturbances or those not affected by the conditions being studied may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of more effective sleep medications with fewer side effects for patients.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using CRISPR technology to investigate neural mechanisms, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- VA Boston Health Care System — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Uygun, David Samuel — VA Boston Health Care System
- Study coordinator: Uygun, David Samuel
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 below.