Understanding how daily rhythms affect brain activity in a specific type of rodent
Official title: Electrophysiologic characterization of circadian rhythms of prefrontal cortical network states in a diurnal rodent
Funded at University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-10757702 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how the daily brain activity of a type of rodent affects its behavior, especially in relation to seasonal mood changes, to help us understand how these patterns might relate to conditions like seasonal affective disorder (SAD).
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 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 | January 1, 2023 |
| Project end | November 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $195,192 |
| NIH project number | 5R21MH131527-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10757702 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing seasonal affective disorder or related mood disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-seasonal mood disorders or those not affected by circadian rhythm disruptions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the daily patterns of brain activity in a diurnal rodent to understand how these rhythms influence behavior, particularly in relation to seasonal affective disorder (SAD). By using advanced techniques to record electrical activity in the medial prefrontal cortex, the study aims to uncover the relationship between circadian rhythms and neural function. The findings could provide insights into how disruptions in these rhythms may contribute to mood disorders. This research utilizes animal models to explore these complex interactions over a 24-hour cycle.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for patients suffering from seasonal affective disorder and other mood disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding circadian rhythms and their impact on mood disorders, but this specific approach using diurnal rodents is relatively novel.
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
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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.