Understanding how the brain controls REM sleep
Medullary Control of REM Sleep
This study is looking at how certain brain cells in mice help control REM sleep, the stage of sleep where we dream, to better understand how problems with this sleep phase might be linked to mood issues like depression.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10841769 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of specific neurons in the medulla part of the brain that are involved in regulating REM sleep, which is the sleep phase associated with vivid dreaming. By using advanced techniques to manipulate and observe these neurons in mouse models, the researchers aim to uncover how these neurons influence REM sleep and their connections to other brain areas. The findings could provide insights into how disturbances in REM sleep relate to mood disorders like depression.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing mood disorders, particularly those with symptoms related to disrupted REM sleep.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have mood disorders or issues with sleep may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for mood disorders by targeting the mechanisms that control REM sleep.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding sleep mechanisms, but this specific focus on the medulla's role in REM sleep is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Philadelphia, United States
- University of Pennsylvania — Philadelphia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Weber, Franz L — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Weber, Franz L
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.