Sleep is a biological need for all animals that can greatly effect psychological and physical health. However, as we age not only do we become more susceptible to disease, but our sleep also suffers. We have trouble falling asleep, and we wake up more often at night. We want to understand what are the major molecular and genetic contributors that effect age-related sleep decline. 

Mitochondria are master regulators of metabolism. They not only supply most of our cell's energy needs, but they can also be critical for lipid homeostasis, Calcium signaling, and cell death. Recent research has suggested that mitochondria may be a key regulator in sleep regulation. We want to investigate mitochondria and sleep in multiple ways. Check out the Research page for more details.