Abstract
This review aims to summarize the knowledge about the relationship between circadian rhythms and their influence on the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and metabolic syndrome. Circadian rhythms are controlled by internal molecular feedback loops that synchronize the organism with the external environment. These loops are affected by genetic and epigenetic factors. Genetic factors include polymorphisms and mutations of circadian genes. The expression of circadian genes is regulated by epigenetic mechanisms that change from prenatal development to old age. Epigenetic modifications are influenced by the external environment. Most of these modifications are affected by our own life style. Irregular circadian rhythm and low quality of sleep have been shown to increase the risk of developing T2DM and other metabolic disorders. Here, we attempt to provide a wide description of mutual relationships between epigenetic regulation, circadian rhythm, aging process and highlight new evidences that show possible therapeutic advance in the field of chrono-medicine which will be more important in the upcoming years.
Highlights
Almost every cell in the organism carries its genetic information, containing thousands of genes
There is an association between long term shift work and changes in DNA methylation of ZFHX3 gene that encodes a protein acting in circadian rhythm pathways [92].important evidences support a bidirectional model of mutual relationship between aging processes and molecular circadian mechanisms [93]
The epigenetic processes regulating circadian rhythms are difficult to modify by using drugs
Summary
Almost every cell in the organism carries its genetic information, containing thousands of genes. It is worth mentioning that the endocrine system plays a major role in regulating physiological processes and, importantly, is controlled by circadian molecular mechanisms [6] Processes such as sleep, locomotion, nutrient uptake and metabolism of substances, immune responses, excretion, regeneration, and more must take place with circadian rhythmicity. Melatonin secretion is controlled by the SCN pacemaker and is important for synchronizing peripheral tissue clocks [12] This means that every single cell must be fine-tuned to carry out its functions at an appropriate time. Regulation of adipocyte differentiation, gluconeogenesis and insulin secretion, changes in fat burning during sleep [34,35,36]
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