Body Clock Genes, Daily Rhythms, and Mood Disorders

Abnormalities in circadian rhythms may be linked to the development of mood disorders such as bipolar disorder and major depression.

• Circadian rhythms are thought to influence mood regulation and could play a role in mood disorders.
• Certain treatments for mood disorders, like total sleep deprivation and bright light therapy, may work by resetting the circadian clock.
• Mood stabilizers and antidepressants might achieve some of their effects by impacting the circadian clock.
• Recent studies have identified specific genes involved in circadian rhythms that are associated with mood regulation.
• The roles of these genes in brain areas and neurotransmitter systems related to mood are increasingly recognized.

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