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As anticipation builds for the longer days following this weekend’s transition to daylight savings time, the moment seems ideal to explore how our biological clocks work and how we can better regulate our circadian rhythms. One of the nation’s leading experts in this field, UC Santa Cruz Professor Carrie Partch, has dedicated her career to studying the molecular mechanisms that govern our internal clocks.
Partch, a professor of chemistry and biochemistry, has received numerous accolades for her contributions to circadian biology. Most notably, she was recently named one of just 26 top U.S. scientists selected by the Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) as an HHMI investigator. Her research seeks to advance our molecular understanding of biological clocks to develop innovative treatments for a broad range of human diseases, including psychiatric disorders, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer.
The Importance of Well-Regulated Circadian Rhythms
Our circadian clocks operate within every cell in the body, but they are primarily synchronized by a master clock in the brain, which responds to environmental cues such as light. Circadian rhythms influence crucial bodily functions, from regulating metabolism and immune responses to determining alertness and sleep patterns.
Disruptions to these rhythms—caused by factors like shift work, jet lag, or excessive screen time at night—can increase the risk of obesity, cardiovascular disease, and even cancer. Ensuring that our daily activities align with the natural day-night cycle enhances overall health and well-being.
Optimizing Circadian Regulation Through Daily Habits
While research into the molecular regulation of circadian rhythms continues to evolve, everyday actions can significantly impact our biological clocks. Key strategies include:
- Consistent Sleep Schedules: Going to bed and waking up at the same time every day strengthens circadian stability.
- Morning Sunlight Exposure: At least 30 minutes of natural light in the morning helps synchronize the body’s clocks and improve sleep quality.
- Mindful Eating Habits: Restricting caloric intake to a 10-hour window during the day has been linked to weight loss and improved metabolic function.
- Screen-Free Evenings: Reducing exposure to artificial blue light before bedtime supports melatonin production and prepares the body for sleep.
Scientific Discoveries and Future Treatments
Recent studies suggest that natural compounds like nobiletin, a citrus-derived flavonoid, can enhance circadian rhythms and counteract the effects of unhealthy diets. Furthermore, ongoing research into genetic variations in clock genes may pave the way for personalized treatments that minimize the negative impacts of jet lag and shift work.
As Partch and her team continue to explore how circadian rhythms function across diverse organisms, the support of institutions like HHMI enables the pursuit of groundbreaking discoveries. Advances in this field hold promise for developing new drugs and therapies that harness circadian biology to improve human health.
The Importance of Federal Funding for Basic Research
The study of biological clocks exemplifies the significance of basic biomedical research. Many transformative medical breakthroughs, such as gene therapy and immunotherapies, have emerged from fundamental scientific investigations. Continued investment in research and training the next generation of scientists will lead to future treatments for diseases we have yet to fully understand.
Disclaimer
This article is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. For personalized health recommendations, consult a healthcare professional.
Provided by University of California – Santa Cruz
