The purpose of this study is to determine the properties of circadian rhythms and sleep propensity in familial advanced and delayed sleep phase syndrome (DSPS).

Population

Subjects with circadian rhythm sleep disorders and healthy age and gender matched controls

Brief Title

Circadian Rhythms and Sleep in Familial DSPS and ASPS

Official Title

Circadian Rhythms and Sleep in Familial Delayed Sleep Phase Syndrome (DSPS) and Advanced Sleep Phase Syndrome (ASPS)

Brief Summary

The purpose of this study is to determine the properties of circadian rhythms and sleep <br /> propensity in familial advanced and delayed sleep phase syndrome (DSPS).

Detailed Description

BACKGROUND:

Tremendous progress in the past few years has led to the identification of several circadian
clock genes. This now makes it possible to determine how alterations of human circadian clock
genes and their expression could lead to differences in circadian and sleep/wake cycle
phenotypes. Of particular interest for understanding genetics of the human circadian system
are individuals with sleep phase disorders, such as DSPS and advanced sleep phase syndrome
(ASPS), because recent studies indicate a genetic basis for these disorders. While it is
assumed that both ASPS and DSPS are disorders of circadian timing, little is known about how
the circadian clock system, or its interaction with sleep processes, are affected in these
individuals.

DESIGN NARRATIVE:

Participants will complete questionnaires and actigraphy to determine sleep patterns and
quality.

Outcome Measures

Outcome measures are the tests that investigators perform to prove whether or not a treatment being tested in a clinical trial is having any effect.