The Biological Clock That Controls Timing in Living Things

Circadian rhythms influence human physiology, metabolism, and behavior on a 24-hour cycle.

• Daily variations in enzyme and hormone levels impact cell function, division, and growth.
• Circadian clocks consist of proteins that create a feedback loop with a cycle of approximately 24 hours.
• One or more components of the circadian clock can respond to light, allowing synchronization to local time.
• Disruption of the circadian timing system may accelerate cancer growth, while reinforcement could slow it down.

Simplified