NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

Sleep, mood, and mouth bacteria in teens and young adults

Official title: Sleep and Circadian Rhythm Phenotypes in Adolescent Depression: Exploring the Role of the Oral Microbiome

Funded at Emma Pendleton Bradley Hospital · NIH-11336433 · Data updated 2026-11-12

A teen/young adult study will look at how sleep patterns and circadian rhythms relate to the bacteria in the mouth and to depression.

More Depression research and trials

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionEmma Pendleton Bradley Hospital
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Riverside, UNITED STATES)
Project startApril 6, 2021
Project endApril 30, 2031
Funding year2026
Award (this year)$185,106
NIH project number2P20GM139743-06
Project IDNIH-11336433 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Adolescents and young adults, including those with depression and related sleep issues, who can provide data or samples.

Less likely to help

Individuals without depression or sleep disturbances may have less direct benefit from the study results.

What this research studies

This project will examine how sleep timing and daily rhythms may shape the oral microbiome in adolescents and young adults who experience depression. Using data from a national survey, researchers will analyze relationships between microbiome makeup, sleep/wake patterns, and mood symptoms. The goal is to understand whether circadian misalignment could influence oral health and mental well-being in this age group. The study builds on prior observations and will replicate findings in a larger, representative population of youths and young adults.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, findings could inform interventions that improve both oral health and mood by aligning sleep and daily routines.

How similar studies have gone: Prior adult studies suggest a link between depression and oral microbiome differences, but replication in younger populations is needed.

Where this research is happening

  • Emma Pendleton Bradley Hospital
    Riverside, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Narcisse, Marie-Rachelle — Emma Pendleton Bradley Hospital
  • Study coordinator: Narcisse, Marie-Rachelle

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.