Abstract
The sleep–wake rhythm, regulated by the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) and peripheral clocks, is influenced by light, nutrition, stress, and exercise. Recent findings suggest that estrogen receptors in the SCN may link ovarian hormone regulation to circadian rhythms, highlighting the need to consider hormonal fluctuations throughout the menstrual cycle when examining the effects of exercise on the sleep–wake rhythm in females. Therefore, we conducted a scoping review to compile existing studies involving human participants, aiming to provide a foundation for research focused on the specific physiological phenomena in females. Based on 228 literature sources, only 6 met the inclusion criteria. Despite variations in the exercise type, intensity, and duration, transient exercise demonstrated a significant impact on the expression of the clock genes BMAL1, PER2, and CRY1, suggesting their susceptibility to such activities. This review highlights the absence of studies examining the effects of exercise on clock gene expression in females, particularly in relation to menstrual cycles and ovarian hormone fluctuations, emphasizing the need for future investigations that incorporate these factors.
Published Version
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