The heart’s internal clock and its possible effects on heart gene activity, metabolism, and function

Diurnal variations in the responsiveness of the cardiovascular system may be influenced by both extracellular and intracellular factors.

• Intrinsic properties of the heart and blood vessels show significant changes throughout the day.
• The cardiovascular system's response to environmental changes is regulated by neurohumoral and circadian influences.
• The intracellular circadian clock helps cells recognize the time of day, preparing them for expected stimuli.
• Recent studies suggest that the circadian clock in the heart may influence myocardial metabolism.
• This metabolic modulation could assist in adapting to daily fluctuations in workload and energy supply.
• Potential links between circadian clock dysfunction and cardiovascular diseases like hypertension and diabetes are explored.

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