Corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF), the primary neuropeptide regulator of responses to stress, is implicated in the suppression of sleep during stress conditions. We hypothesize that stress-induced disruption of sleep involves suppressing effect of increased CRF signalling in the brain on the activity of key sleep-regulatory neuronal systems. In Aim 1, we will determine the effects of pharmacological suppression of CRF signalling, during acute stress, on wake-sleep behaviour and on sleep-related activity in the preoptic hypothalamus. In Aim 2, we will determine the effect of chemogenetic silencing of CRF neurons on stress-induced disturbances of sleep.

Principal investigator: Irma Gvilia