Genetic Basis of Circadian Rhythm Sleep Disorders
People with extremely early or extremely late sleep times may suffer from Circadian Rhythm Sleep Disorder (CRSD). In CRSD a person's circadian system makes it difficult for them to sleep at the time they wish to schedule. This condition is very prevalent in the population and people with CRSD often experience diminished quality of life, depression, impaired health, and are at greater risk of having accidents. |
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To better understand the role genetics plays in CRSD, researchers at the Arizona Respiratory Center are collaborating with scientists at the University of California in San Diego (UCSD) to systematically study the genetic variants associated with this disorder. The study is being funded by the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI).
In the first phase fo this three-year study researchers at UCSD will recruit 200 particpants with delayed sleep phase systems, "night owles." Once a participant has met all of the study criteria a small blood sample will be drawn. The DNA will be sent to the Analytical Genetics Laboratory (AGL) at the Arizona Respiratory Center for genetic analysis aimed at determining which of the nearly 30,000 genes is responsible for the inherited component of CRSD.
By discovering which genes are associated with CRSD, this study will lay the groundwork for better clinical diagnostics for this condition, as well as new therapies aimed at specific genes.
Multidisciplinary study involving: Genetics and Immunology
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