Purdue Researcher Receives Grant from Sleep Research Society Foundation

06-20-2024

Professor Jimmy Dolley sitting on a chair in his lab

James Dooley, Assistant Professor in the Biological Sciences Department at Purdue University, has been awarded a grant from the Sleep Research Society Foundation. The funding, aimed at advancing our understanding of sleep, circadian rhythms, and related disorders, will support Dooley's research uncovering how brain activity during sleep is critical to sensorimotor development.

The study seeks to explore the mechanisms underlying the integration of the primary motor cortex (M1) into the sensorimotor network during early development. Dooley's research focuses on understanding how M1 transitions from its early sensory identity to its eventual sensorimotor identity, particularly emphasizing the importance of sleep in this process.

"In infancy, the primary motor cortex undergoes a crucial transformation, transitioning from a sensory structure to a sensorimotor structure," explains Dooley. "This transition is essential for enabling coordinated movements. This study explores the neural mechanisms behind sensorimotor integration, and the role of sleep in this process."

Through this grant, Dooley aims to shed light on these critical questions, providing insights into both typical and atypical sensorimotor development. By deepening our understanding of sensorimotor integration, his research holds promise for uncovering the mechanisms underlying the early sensorimotor deficits associated with neurodevelopmental disorders such as ADHD and Autism.

The Sleep Research Society Foundation is dedicated to supporting innovative research that advances our knowledge of sleep and circadian rhythms. Their career development awards are highly competitive and are designed to foster cutting-edge research in the field.

Dooley's work represents a significant contribution to this mission and highlights the institution's commitment to research in the biological sciences.

About the Department of Biological Sciences at Purdue University

Purdue University's Department of Biological Sciences is committed to conducting innovative research that addresses pressing challenges in the life sciences. What we do is biology at scales. With a focus on interdisciplinary collaboration and cutting-edge technologies, our faculty and students are at the forefront of discovery and innovation. We provide life changing education and game changing research. Learn more at bio.purdue.edu/.

Writer: Alisha Referda, areferda@purdue.edu

Source: James Dooley, jcdooley@purdue.edu