Understanding how specific brain neurons control sleep and wakefulness
Specification of sleep-wake control neurons in the basal forebrain
This study is looking at how certain brain cells help control sleep and wakefulness, especially in people like military veterans who may have trouble sleeping due to stress, with the goal of finding new ways to help them get better rest.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | VA Boston Health Care System NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10815699 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the brain circuitry responsible for regulating sleep-wake cycles, particularly focusing on a group of neurons in the basal forebrain. By studying these neurons in mice, the research aims to identify the transcription factors that control their activity and how these factors can be targeted to restore normal sleep patterns. The findings could lead to novel treatments for sleep disorders, especially in populations affected by deployment-related stress, such as military veterans. The approach combines advanced techniques in neurophysiology and developmental biology to uncover mechanisms that could be translated into therapeutic strategies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are military veterans and other adults experiencing sleep disorders, particularly those related to stress and neuropsychiatric conditions.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have sleep disorders or those outside the adult age range may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for insomnia and other sleep disorders, significantly improving the quality of life for affected individuals.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in understanding sleep disorders through similar neurophysiological approaches, indicating potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- VA Boston Health Care System — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Brown, Ritchie Edward — VA Boston Health Care System
- Study coordinator: Brown, Ritchie Edward
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.