[Internal clock desynchronization, light and melatonin].

Rhythm desynchronization can lead to fatigue, sleep disorders, and mood disorders.

• Environmental factors such as light-dark cycles, sleep-wake patterns, and social interactions synchronize the internal clock in humans.
• Desynchronization occurs when the internal clock is out of phase with these environmental synchronizers.
• Causes of rhythm desynchronization include shift work, night work, transmeridian flights, depressive states, and certain medications.
• Melatonin and light exposure can help control and resynchronize the internal clock.
• The phase response curve indicates that timing of light exposure or melatonin administration can shift the clock forward or backward.

AI simplified