Researchers at the University of Massachusetts at Amherst have discovered a genetic mutation in hamsters that
In their study, scientists showed that theCRY1 plays an important role in circadian drag, that is, the synchronization of the body clock with external signals and heart disease. A small recessive mutation that scientists have named Duper speeds up the clock under constant conditions and allows it to shift in response to even a short pulse of light.
The researchers simulated the change of time zones inhamsters by changing the lighting time to eight hours every two weeks. The results showed that in normal hamsters with cardiomyopathy, this led to a reduction in life, and genetically modified, which introduced the Duper mutation, successfully adapted to the changes.
In mammals, circadian rhythms are controlledthe main pacemaker in the nucleus of the hypothalamus of the brain. In addition, every cell in the body has its own circadian clock, which is coordinated by the master pacemaker. In a normal, light-dark, and variable environment, the circadian clock creates 24-hour cycles. But in violation of lighting and daily cycles, they can change.
The organs of the body reset their clocks with differentspeed after circadian rhythm disturbance. This temporary shift is believed to cause adverse health effects associated with shift work. The researchers believe that a better understanding of the biological processes that control the "internal" clock will help in the treatment of related diseases in humans.
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