Understanding how light affects daily rhythms in hamsters

Circadian timekeeping in hamster mutants

['FUNDING_R21'] · MARQUETTE UNIVERSITY · NIH-10790160

This study looks at how light affects the daily body clocks of Syrian hamsters, which can help us understand how changes in these rhythms might lead to health problems, and the findings could be useful for improving human health.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorMARQUETTE UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (MILWAUKEE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10790160 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how exposure to light influences daily biological rhythms in Syrian hamsters, which are known to have a unique response to light and melatonin. By studying specific genetic mutations in these hamsters, the researchers aim to uncover how disruptions in circadian rhythms can lead to various health issues. The approach involves using advanced techniques to monitor and analyze the hamsters' circadian timekeeping at both the central and systems levels. This research could provide insights that are more applicable to human health compared to traditional mouse models.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would be individuals experiencing sleep disorders or other health issues related to circadian rhythm disruptions.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have any circadian rhythm disorders or related health issues may not receive direct benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a better understanding of how circadian disruptions contribute to health problems, potentially informing new treatments for sleep disorders and other related conditions.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in using animal models to study circadian rhythms, but this specific approach using Syrian hamsters is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

MILWAUKEE, 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 →

Conditions: Cardiovascular Diseases, cardiovascular disorder

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.