Understanding how specific brain neurons control sleep

Neuronal Circuit Controlling Sleep-Promoting Ventrolateral Preoptic Neurons

NIH-funded research Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center · NIH-11012254

This study is looking at special brain cells that help us sleep, to understand how they work with other brain areas that control when we sleep and wake up, which could help us find better ways to treat sleep problems.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-11012254 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of specific neurons in the brain that promote sleep, focusing on the ventrolateral preoptic (VLPOGal) neurons. It aims to uncover how these neurons interact with other brain circuits that regulate sleep and wakefulness. By studying the connections and signals between sleep-promoting and wake-promoting neurons, the research seeks to fill gaps in our understanding of sleep regulation. This could lead to insights into how sleep disorders develop and how they might be treated.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals experiencing sleep disorders or aberrant sleep patterns.

Not a fit: Patients with no sleep-related issues or those whose sleep disturbances are caused by non-neurological factors may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for sleep disorders, improving sleep quality for many patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding sleep regulation through similar approaches, indicating potential for success in this area.

Where this research is happening

Boston, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.