Wei Liu , Jia Xuan

Institute of Life Science, Jiyang College of Zhejiang A&F University, Zhuji, 311800, Zhejiang, China
Author    Correspondence author
International Journal of Molecular Zoology, 2024, Vol. 14, No. 3   doi: 10.5376/ijmz.2024.14.0016
Received: 01 Apr., 2024    Accepted: 11 May, 2024    Published: 01 Jun., 2024

This is an open access article published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.

Liu W., and Xuan J., 2024, Circadian rhythms in animals: mechanisms and functions, International Journal of Molecular Zoology, 14(3): 166-181 (doi: 10.5376/ijmz.2024.14.0016)

Circadian rhythms are intrinsic, approximately 24-hour cycles that regulate various physiological and behavioral processes in animals. These rhythms are governed by molecular clocks composed of interlocked transcriptional-translational feedback loops, which are conserved across species. The central pacemaker, located in the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) of the brain, coordinates peripheral clocks in tissues throughout the body, ensuring temporal coherence and optimal physiological function. Recent advances in genomics and next-generation sequencing have elucidated the extensive role of circadian clocks in regulating metabolism, immune function, and other critical biological processes. Disruptions in circadian rhythms are linked to various health issues, including metabolic disorders and cancer. Understanding the molecular mechanisms and systemic interactions of circadian clocks offers promising avenues for therapeutic interventions aimed at restoring circadian homeostasis and improving overall health. This study synthesizes current understanding of the mechanisms and functions of circadian rhythms in animals, emphasizing their evolutionary and physiological importance.

Circadian rhythms; Molecular clocks; Suprachiasmatic nucleus; Transcriptional-translational feedback loops; Metabolic regulation