Investigating sleep regulation in Smith-Magenis Syndrome
Official title: Circadian and homeostatic regulation of sleep in a diurnal model of Smith-Magenis Syndrome
Funded at University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-11102461 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how sleep works in people with Smith-Magenis Syndrome, who often have trouble sleeping, by using a special rodent model to learn more about the brain's role in sleep and how light and melatonin might help improve sleep for those with the condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2025 |
| Project end | March 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $567,704 |
| NIH project number | 1R01NS141983-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11102461 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Smith-Magenis Syndrome who experience sleep disturbances.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without Smith-Magenis Syndrome or those who do not experience sleep-related issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores how sleep is regulated in individuals with Smith-Magenis Syndrome (SMS), a condition that often leads to significant sleep disturbances. By using a diurnal rodent model created through advanced gene editing techniques, the study aims to uncover the neural mechanisms that contribute to these sleep issues. The researchers will examine the effects of light and melatonin on sleep patterns, which may help to understand the underlying causes of sleep problems in SMS. The ultimate goal is to identify potential interventions that could improve sleep and, consequently, behavioral challenges associated with the syndrome.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved sleep and reduced behavioral issues for patients with Smith-Magenis Syndrome.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding sleep disturbances in neurodevelopmental disorders, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Watson, Brendon O — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Watson, Brendon O
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.