Understanding how biological clocks adapt to temperature and energy changes
Official title: Temperature and metabolic compensation mechanisms in a circadian clock system
Funded at University of California, Merced · NIH-11001557 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how tiny bacteria called cyanobacteria keep their internal clocks running smoothly, even when temperatures and energy levels change, to help us understand how living things adapt to day and night.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, Merced NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Merced, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2022 |
| Project end | December 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $340,666 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM144110-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11001557 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include individuals with conditions influenced by circadian rhythms, such as sleep disorders or metabolic syndromes.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to circadian rhythms or those not affected by biological timing mechanisms may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which circadian clocks in cyanobacteria maintain their function despite variations in temperature and cellular energy levels. By studying these biological clocks, the research aims to uncover how these systems can reliably anticipate environmental changes, such as day and night. The approach involves innovative methodologies developed over two decades of research, focusing on the interactions of clock proteins and their responses to metabolic conditions. The findings could provide insights into the fundamental processes that govern biological timing across various organisms.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to advancements in understanding how circadian rhythms affect health and potentially inform treatments for related disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding circadian rhythms and their impact on health, making this investigation a continuation of established scientific inquiry.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, Merced
Merced, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Liwang, Andy — University of California, Merced
- Study coordinator: Liwang, Andy
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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.