The interplay between circadian rhythms and aging: molecular mechanisms and therapeutic strategies

Aug 27, 2025Biogerontology

How daily body clocks and aging interact: underlying processes and possible treatments

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Abstract

Circadian rhythms regulate critical biological functions and may be linked to aging and neurodegenerative diseases.

Circadian rhythms operate on a 24-hour cycle and influence sleep, cognitive function, immune responses, and hormone secretion.
Aging is associated with changes in sleep patterns and may disrupt circadian rhythms, potentially worsening neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's and Alzheimer's.
Core CLOCK genes, such as BMAL1 and Per2, play a regulatory role in circadian rhythms and their relationship with aging.
Circadian misalignment is linked to metabolic disorders, including obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.
Therapeutic strategies targeting circadian pathways could include pharmacological agents and lifestyle modifications to promote healthy aging.

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Circadian rhythms are essential biological systems operating on a 24-h cycle, playing a crucial role in regulating sleep, cognitive function, immune responses, and hormone secretion. This review explores the intricate relationship between circadian rhythms and aging, with a focus on the underlying molecular mechanisms. It discusses age-related changes in sleep patterns and the role of circadian disruption in the progression of neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's. Special attention is given to the core CLOCK genes, including BMAL1 and Per2, and their regulatory influence on these processes. The review also highlights the impact of circadian misalignment on metabolic disorders, particularly obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Emerging therapeutic strategies targeting circadian pathways-ranging from pharmacological agents to lifestyle modifications-are presented as promising approaches to support healthy aging. This review provides the deeper understanding of how aging affects circadian regulation may pave the way for targeted interventions aimed at extending lifespan and enhancing overall quality of life.

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The interplay between circadian rhythms and aging: molecular mechanisms and therapeutic strategies

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