Understanding how light and meal timing affect body clocks in humans
Official title: Biomarkers for Peripheral Circadian Clocks in Humans
Run by University of Colorado, Boulder · NCT06296823 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing how different light exposure and meal times affect our body clocks to help find new ways to improve health.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 17 Years to 35 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 14 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Colorado, Boulder Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Boulder, Colorado) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | September 1, 2023 |
| Main results expected | August 31, 2027 |
| Study ends | August 31, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | June 17, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT06296823 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are healthy individuals aged 17-35 who reside at Denver altitude or higher.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with medical, psychiatric, or sleep disorders may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This project aims to enhance our understanding of peripheral circadian rhythms in humans by utilizing simulated jetlag protocols. Participants will undergo a series of visits where they will maintain a regular sleep-wake schedule, wear activity and light exposure monitors, and consume controlled meals at specific times. The study will assess how variations in light exposure and meal timing influence blood and saliva proteins related to circadian rhythms. The ultimate goal is to identify new biomarkers for peripheral rhythms and develop circadian-based treatments.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to novel treatments for aligning peripheral circadian rhythms, potentially improving health and well-being.
How similar studies have gone: Other studies have shown promise in understanding circadian rhythms, but this approach is novel in its focus on peripheral biomarkers.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: 1\) 17-35 years old 2) English speaking 3) Healthy 5) Altitude history: Currently residing at Denver altitude or higher Exclusion Criteria: 1\. Any medical, psychiatric, or sleep disorder.
Where it's running
-
Sleep and Chronobiology Laboratory
Boulder, Colorado, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Kenneth Wright, PhD
- Email: sleep.study@colorado.edu
- Phone: 303-735-1923
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.