UCLA PAUL LAB

Advancing research in biomarkers for sleep homeostasis and circadian rhythms

RESEARCH PROJECTS

Learn more about our current areas of study

Phenotypic Sex and Sleep Behavior

Investigated by: Micah Ralston, Khushi Choudhary

The Four Core Genotype (FCG) mouse model enables investigation of sex differences in sleep via a mouse model in which phenotype is independent of genotype. The FCG experimental approach seeks to determine the ability of sex-linked genes to influence sleep independently of phenotypic sex, more specifically how the Y sex chromosome encodes varying homeostatic responses to sleep loss.

Sleep Loss and Social Defeat Stress in Female Mice

Investigated by: Asha Fletcher, Ella Cooper

This study aims to elucidate the intersection of sleep, stress, and social behavior in neuropsychiatric research. We will evaluate the efficacy of male urine application as a facilitator of female social defeat stress, and determine whether sleep loss exacerbates social stress-induced avoidance behaviors. We will investigate resilient versus susceptible sleep phenotypes exhibited by female mice after sleep deprivation.

Homeostatic Sleep Responses to Stress

Investigated by: Mackenna Kahan, Erin Lee

We are investigating the influence of stress on mechanisms of sleep homeostasis. We aim to elucidate the sex differences in the effects on sleep architecture that occur during recovery following restraint stress. This study uses the FCG mouse model, behavioral and genetic assays to test the hypothesis that females are more susceptible to sleep disorders and stress-related comorbidities.

Sleep Phenotypes in Myotonic Dystrophy

Investigated by: Christian Capuno

We will be using the Mbnl2 mouse model of Myotonic Dystrophy Type I (DM1) to characterize the bidirectional relationship an inactivation of the Muscleblind-like protein has with sleep phenotypes following sleep disruptions. We are interested in the functional pathways connecting muscle and brain activity and will test our hypothesis by measuring sleep-wake architecture via EEG/EMG surgery.

Slow Oscillations Project

Investigated by: Kylan Jin, Emily Lee

The slow oscillation (SO) project is an approach to extract SO information from measurable delta wave (DW) data. Using a MATLAB script, this work expands the types of analyses performed on EEG files, leveraging existing data to provide insights into memory, plasticity, and restorative processes during sleep.

Phenome Project

Investigated by: Paul Lab

Using the BxD recombinant inbred mouse strain to study sleep phenotypes, we are able to identify quantitative trait loci (QTLs) fundamental to understanding the genetic diversity underlying sleep disorders.