Understanding Delayed Sleep Wake Phase Disorder

Pathophysiology of Circadian Rhythm Delayed Sleep Wake Phase Disorder

NA · University of Colorado, Boulder · NCT06471374

This study is trying to understand what causes delayed sleep wake phase disorder by comparing people with the condition to healthy individuals and looking at their sleep patterns, light exposure, and blood sugar levels.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment66 (estimated)
Ages16 Years to 30 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Colorado, Boulder (other)
Locations2 sites (Boulder, Colorado and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT06471374 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to investigate the factors contributing to delayed sleep wake phase disorder (DSWPD) by comparing patients with DSWPD to healthy controls in terms of circadian rhythm alterations and light sensitivity. Participants will undergo a series of in-person visits and ambulatory monitoring sessions, where they will wear devices to track their sleep, light exposure, and blood sugar levels. The study will also explore a novel method of predicting circadian rhythms from blood samples, providing insights into the biological underpinnings of DSWPD.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are individuals diagnosed with delayed sleep wake phase disorder who reside at high altitudes and have a normal to moderately overweight BMI.

Not a fit: Patients with recent medical conditions, psychiatric disorders, other sleep disorders, or those on medication may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and management of delayed sleep wake phase disorder, enhancing the quality of life for affected patients.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach of assessing circadian rhythms and light sensitivity is established, the specific methodology of predicting circadian rhythms from blood samples is novel and has not been extensively tested.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Delayed sleep wake phase disorder diagnosis
* Altitude history: currently residing at Denver altitude or higher
* BMI normal to moderately overweight

Exclusion Criteria:

* Recent medical condition
* Psychiatric disorder
* Sleep disorder
* Medication use

Where this trial is running

Boulder, Colorado and 1 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Delayed Sleep Phase Syndrome, Delayed Sleep Phase

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.