Investigating the genetics of idiopathic hypersomnia across species
Official title: A cross-species approach to hypersomnia genetics informed by human GWAS
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-10981595 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking into the genetic causes of idiopathic hypersomnia, a condition that makes you really sleepy during the day even if you’ve slept well at night, to help find better treatments for people living with it.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | August 15, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $495,816 |
| NIH project number | 1R01NS135075-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10981595 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with idiopathic hypersomnia or those experiencing excessive daytime sleepiness.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with hypersomnia due to other known medical conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on idiopathic hypersomnia (IH), a condition marked by excessive daytime sleepiness despite adequate nighttime sleep. The study aims to uncover the genetic underpinnings of IH by utilizing genome-wide association studies (GWAS) and advanced techniques like ATAC-seq to identify genes linked to hypersomnia traits. By validating these findings in model organisms such as fruit flies and zebrafish, the research seeks to enhance our understanding of IH and improve treatment options for patients. The goal is to bridge the gap between genetic data and practical applications in managing this disorder.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better-targeted treatments for patients suffering from idiopathic hypersomnia.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding sleep disorders through genetic approaches, indicating potential for success in this novel investigation.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chesi, Alessandra — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Chesi, Alessandra
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.