Understanding how daily biological rhythms affect bipolar disorder
Official title: Diurnal Molecular Rhythms of the Human Hypothalamus and Involvement in Bipolar Disorder
Funded at University of Mississippi Med Ctr · NIH-10925269 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the body's internal clock affects mood and anxiety in people with bipolar disorder, hoping to find out how changes in this clock might lead to mood swings and stress.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Mississippi Med Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Jackson, United States) |
| Project start | September 20, 2021 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $391,972 |
| NIH project number | 5R01MH125833-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-10925269 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with bipolar disorder who experience significant mood fluctuations and anxiety.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with bipolar disorder who do not exhibit circadian rhythm disruptions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of circadian rhythms in bipolar disorder by examining the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN), which is the brain's master clock. The study aims to identify how disruptions in these rhythms may lead to increased anxiety and mood fluctuations in individuals with bipolar disorder. By analyzing molecular changes in the SCN and its connections to stress-regulating areas of the brain, researchers hope to uncover the underlying mechanisms that contribute to the symptoms of bipolar disorder. This approach combines molecular biology with behavioral assessments to provide a comprehensive understanding of the condition.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies that target circadian rhythms to improve mood stability in patients with bipolar disorder.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that circadian rhythm disruptions are linked to mood disorders, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Mississippi Med Ctr
Jackson, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pantazopoulos, Harry — University of Mississippi Med Ctr
- Study coordinator: Pantazopoulos, Harry
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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.