U-M studies impact of sleep, depression
Published on Mon 2 Jun 2008
The University of Michigan has opened one of the world's first laboratories to study the impact of sleep and biological rhythms on depression, substance abuse and mental well-being.
The eight-bed Sleep & Chronophysiology Laboratory has banks of lights on its walls and ceilings to simulate all times of day and night, allowing researchers to monitor a person's internal time clock, or circadian rhythms. The rooms also offer light-therapy for depression, including seasonal winter problems.
Researchers hope to understand better how light alters the production of melatonin, a hormone that regulates circadian rhythms. They also plan to study how avoidance of bright light might aggravate depression in girls and women.
The center's lighting system was designed by Mojtaba Navvab, a U-M associate professor of architecture and urban planning, and was installed by Spectrum Solutions of Jackson.
|
Bookmark with: