Understanding how lack of sleep affects decision-making in the brain.

THE ROLE OF MEDIUM SPINY NEURONS IN SLEEP DEPRIVATION-INDUCED COGNITIVE RIGIDITY.

['FUNDING_R21'] · WASHINGTON STATE UNIVERSITY · NIH-10791860

This study looks at how not getting enough sleep affects our ability to make decisions when things change, using mice and rats to explore what happens in their brains when they're sleep-deprived, so we can learn more about why we might struggle to adapt when we're tired.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorWASHINGTON STATE UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (PULLMAN, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10791860 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how sleep deprivation impacts cognitive flexibility, which is the ability to adapt decision-making in changing situations. By studying specific brain cells in mice and rats, the researchers aim to uncover the biochemical and electrical changes that occur in the brain due to lack of sleep. The study employs advanced techniques like electrophysiology and real-time imaging to observe these changes and their effects on behavior. The goal is to better understand the underlying mechanisms that lead to cognitive rigidity when sleep is insufficient.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing cognitive difficulties related to sleep deprivation, such as shift workers or those with sleep disorders.

Not a fit: Patients who do not experience cognitive rigidity or sleep-related decision-making issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for improving cognitive function in individuals suffering from sleep deprivation.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the effects of sleep deprivation on cognitive function, making this approach both relevant and potentially impactful.

Where this research is happening

PULLMAN, UNITED STATES

Researchers

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 below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.