Understanding how sleep loss affects gene expression in the brain

A genomic characterization of the response to sleep loss

NIH-funded research Ut Southwestern Medical Center · NIH-10928421

This study looks at how not getting enough sleep affects the way certain genes work in the brain, especially in areas that help with thinking and mood, to better understand how sleep loss might impact mental health.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUt Southwestern Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Dallas, United States)
Project IDNIH-10928421 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how sleep deprivation influences gene expression in the brain, particularly focusing on the frontal cortex. By analyzing the differential expression of genes in response to sleep loss, the study aims to uncover the cellular mechanisms that mediate sleep's effects on mental health. The research utilizes advanced genomic techniques to identify specific genes and pathways that are altered when sleep is restricted. This could provide insights into how sleep impacts brain function and mental disorders.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing sleep deprivation or related mental health issues.

Not a fit: Patients with stable sleep patterns and no mental health concerns may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for improving mental health by targeting the biological effects of sleep loss.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the relationship between sleep and gene expression, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Dallas, 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.
Conditions Mental disordersMental health disordersPsychiatric DiseasePsychiatric Disorderpsychological disorder
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.