The Phase-Shifting Effect of Bright Light Exposure on Circadian Rhythmicity in the Human Transcriptome

Bright light exposure (~6,500 lux) during a simulated night shift may cause an average phase delay of approximately 8 to 9 hours in peripheral gene expression.

• Bright light exposure significantly alters the timing of gene expression in peripheral blood cells.
• Participants exposed to bright light demonstrated a greater phase delay compared to those in dim-light conditions.
• The average phase delay in the control group was approximately 1 to 2 hours.
• Peripheral gene expression changes could reflect shifts in the central circadian clock.
• These findings suggest that light may synchronize both central and peripheral biological rhythms.

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