Understanding the genetics of short sleep patterns in humans
Probing genetics and biology of human sleep homeostasis
This study is looking into a rare genetic condition called Familial Natural Short Sleep, where some people need less sleep but still feel great, and it's for families who have this condition to help researchers find out more about the genes that make it happen.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Francisco NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10893516 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates Familial Natural Short Sleep (FNSS), a rare genetic condition where individuals require significantly less sleep than average yet feel well-rested. The study involves collecting DNA samples and phenotyping from families affected by FNSS to identify genetic mutations associated with this condition. Researchers utilize whole exome sequencing to analyze genetic data and have developed mouse models to study the effects of identified mutations. By expanding their database of FNSS subjects, the team aims to uncover additional genetic factors that contribute to this unique sleep phenotype.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals or families with a history of Familial Natural Short Sleep or those who sleep significantly less than average and feel well-rested.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have a genetic predisposition to short sleep or those with unrelated sleep disorders may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a better understanding of sleep regulation and potential treatments for sleep disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has successfully identified genetic factors related to sleep patterns, making this approach promising for further discoveries.
Where this research is happening
San Francisco, United States
- University of California, San Francisco — San Francisco, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ptacek, Louis J. — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Ptacek, Louis J.
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.