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Updated: Jun 25, 2026
07:12
Circadian Entrainment of Drosophila Melanogaster
Published on: June 3, 2020
The pathophysiology of jet lag
1Sleep Disorders Medicine Program, Department of Psychiatry, Oregon Health and Sciences University, 3181 S. W. Sam Jackson Park Road, Portland, OR 97239-3098, USA. sackr@ohsu.edu
Travel Medicine and Infectious Disease
|February 25, 2009
Summary
Jet Lag Disorder (JLD) is a sleep issue from rapid time zone changes. Understanding circadian rhythms, light, and melatonin can guide effective JLD treatments.
Area of Science:
- Chronobiology
- Sleep Medicine
- Human Physiology
Background:
- Jet Lag Disorder (JLD) is a circadian rhythm sleep disturbance.
- It results from circadian misalignment due to rapid transmeridian travel.
- Symptoms include insomnia, daytime sleepiness, and malaise.
Purpose of the Study:
- To propose a rational treatment approach for JLD.
- To ground treatments in the biology of the human circadian timekeeping system.
- To review interventions based on circadian rhythm physiology.
Main Methods:
- Overview of circadian rhythm physiology, focusing on light and melatonin.
- Examination of timed light exposure/avoidance and melatonin administration.
- Review of clinical field trials for circadian-based interventions.
Main Results:
- Timed light exposure and melatonin can accelerate circadian realignment.
- Understanding circadian physiology is key to JLD treatment.
- Travel-related sleep deprivation and fatigue also contribute to JLD.
Conclusions:
- A biologically informed approach can effectively manage JLD.
- Circadian rhythm interventions, guided by light and melatonin, show promise.
- Further research and application of these findings are warranted.
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