Journal of applied physiology (Bethesda, Md. : 1985)Aug 8, 2009

Genes that control daily body rhythms and their link to metabolic diseases

Circadian Biology Weekly Brief ↗PubMed ↗DOI ↗

Updated Apr 6, 2026

Abstract

The circadian system synchronizes physiological processes with the Earth's rotation.

The circadian clock is found in central brain neurons and nearly all peripheral tissues.
Disruption in circadian rhythms may lead to disturbances in metabolic processes.
Metabolic system disturbances could also impact circadian rhythms.
Understanding the links between circadian and metabolic systems may help address sleep and metabolic disorders.

Simplified

The circadian system is a key integrator of behavior and metabolism that synchronizes physiological processes with the rotation of the Earth on its axis. In mammals, the clock is present not only within the central pacemaker neurons of the hypothalamus, but also within extra-suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) regions of brain and nearly all peripheral tissues. Recent evidence suggests that the complex feedback networks that encompass both the circadian and metabolic systems are intimately intertwined and that disruption of either system leads to reciprocal disturbances in the other. We anticipate that improved understanding of the interconnections between the circadian and metabolic networks will open new windows on the treatment of sleep and metabolic disorders, including diabetes mellitus and obesity.

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Genes that control daily body rhythms and their link to metabolic diseases

Abstract

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