Understanding the Genetic Roots of Excessive Daytime Sleepiness
A cross-species approach to hypersomnia genetics informed by human GWAS
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA · NIH-11170717
This research aims to uncover the genetic reasons behind idiopathic hypersomnia, a condition causing extreme daytime sleepiness, to help us find better ways to manage it.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11170717 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Idiopathic hypersomnia (IH) causes significant daytime sleepiness and can greatly affect daily life, yet we don't fully understand why it happens. This project looks into the genetic factors that contribute to IH by examining human genetic information. Researchers will use advanced techniques to pinpoint specific genes and then test their roles in sleep using models like fruit flies and zebrafish. The goal is to identify the underlying causes of IH, which could lead to more effective treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research is focused on understanding the genetics of idiopathic hypersomnia, particularly for adults aged 21 and older who experience excessive daytime sleepiness.
Not a fit: Patients whose sleepiness is caused by factors other than idiopathic hypersomnia, or those not experiencing excessive daytime sleepiness, may not directly benefit from this specific genetic research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal the specific genetic causes of idiopathic hypersomnia, paving the way for new and more targeted treatments for patients.
How similar studies have performed: The researchers indicate that they have already started using similar approaches successfully, suggesting a foundation for this work.
Where this research is happening
PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA — PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: CHESI, ALESSANDRA — UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA
- Study coordinator: CHESI, ALESSANDRA
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.