Kaelyn Miller Rose Hills
Sleep Deprivation Alters Enzymes and Transporters in Wake Circuits
Chronic sleep deprivation is known to disrupt brain function, but the specific ways it affects wake-promoting neurons are still being uncovered. My project investigates how losing sleep changes the expression of key enzymes and transporters involved in producing and recycling important brain chemicals like dopamine, norepinephrine, serotonin, and acetylcholine. Preliminary results show that sleep deprivation reduces proteins needed for neurotransmitter production, which could be part of the brain’s natural way of protecting itself by pushing for sleep. This summer, I will examine how the amount of time spent awake affects these protein changes and explore the molecular mechanisms that cause them. Understanding these processes may lead to better treatments for sleep disorders and shed light on how the brain defends itself from damage after prolonged wakefulness.
Message To Sponsor
Thank you so much for supporting my research. Throughout my four years at Cal, I have been passionate about neuroscience and dreamed of contributing to research that could improve human health. This project allows me to continue building on that passion, and it strengthens my commitment to pursuing a career in neuroscience research after graduation. I am incredibly grateful for this opportunity and your generosity.