Understanding how sleep changes during early development

Investigating sleep regulation and function during early development

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA · NIH-11100001

This study looks at how our sleep habits change from childhood to adulthood, using fruit flies to help us understand the genes and brain processes that control sleep, which could eventually lead to better ways to help people with sleep problems.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA (nih funded)
Locations1 site (PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11100001 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the changes in sleep patterns from early life to adulthood, focusing on how sleep duration and quality evolve. It aims to uncover the genetic and neural mechanisms that regulate sleep during development, using the fruit fly as a model organism. By identifying key genes and pathways involved in sleep maturation, the research seeks to understand how sleep affects brain development and its implications for neurodevelopmental disorders. The findings could lead to new strategies for improving sleep in individuals with sleep disorders.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals under 21 years old who experience sleep disturbances or are affected by neurodevelopmental disorders.

Not a fit: Patients over 21 years old or those without sleep-related issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide new therapeutic approaches to improve sleep and brain health in children and young adults.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding sleep regulation in model organisms, suggesting potential for success in this area.

Where this research is happening

PHILADELPHIA, 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.