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Circadian rhythms and clock genes in psychotic disorders
Elaine Waddington Lamont1, Daniel L Coutu, Nicolas Cermakian
1Centre for Study and Treatment of Circadian Rhythms, Douglas Mental Health University Institute, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada.
The Israel Journal of Psychiatry and Related Sciences
|August 6, 2010
Summary
Disordered circadian rhythms and sleep disturbances are linked to major psychiatric disorders like bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. Research into clock genes and circadian-based therapies shows promise for future mental health treatments.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychiatry
- Genetics
Background:
- Disordered circadian systems and sleep disturbances, especially REM sleep issues, are implicated in bipolar disorder (BPD) and schizophrenia.
- Therapies targeting sleep and circadian rhythms show promise for affective disorders, but interventions for schizophrenia are limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the connection between circadian rhythms, clock genes, and major psychiatric disorders.
- To review current and potential therapeutic strategies for addressing these disturbances.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on circadian rhythm disruption in psychiatric disorders.
- Analysis of genetic association studies involving clock genes (e.g., CLOCK, PERIOD) in schizophrenia and BPD.
- Examination of therapeutic interventions for sleep and circadian rhythm regulation.
Main Results:
- Sleep disturbances are common in BPD and schizophrenia.
- Light therapy, sleep scheduling, and melatonin show potential benefits.
- Genetic links found between clock genes and schizophrenia; GSK-3 is a potential target in BPD.
Conclusions:
- Circadian rhythm and clock gene research is crucial for advancing psychiatric therapeutics.
- Further investigation into circadian-based interventions may lead to novel treatments for major mental illnesses.
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