Processescircadianthrough

Processescircadianthrough is a term used to describe the integrated set of processes that drive circadian biology, organizing physiological and behavioral rhythms with a ~24-hour cycle. It encompasses molecular, cellular, neural, endocrine, and environmental interactions that align internal functions with day-night cycles.

At the molecular level, core clock components form a transcription-translation feedback loop. CLOCK and BMAL1 activate transcription of PER and CRY genes; PER and CRY proteins accumulate and inhibit CLOCK:BMAL1 activity, creating oscillations in gene expression with roughly 24 hours. Additional regulatory layers include post-translational modifications such as phosphorylation by CK1δ/ε, which influence stability and timing.

The master clock resides in the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) of the hypothalamus, coordinating peripheral clocks in tissues like liver, muscle, and adipose. Light information received by intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells with melanopsin resets the SCN via neural signals, adjusting phase. Through hormonal signals (e.g., melatonin, cortisol) and neural pathways, the SCN synchronizes bodily rhythms; feeding times and temperature also modulate peripheral clocks.

Disruption of processescircadianthrough—such as shift work, jet lag, or aging—can affect sleep, metabolism, immune function, and mood. Research in this area supports chronotherapy and interventions that align behavior and treatment with circadian timing to improve health outcomes.