Clocks, Viruses, and Immunity: Lessons for the COVID-19 Pandemic

Area of Science:

• Chronobiology
• Virology
• Immunology

Background:

• Circadian rhythms are internal biological processes that regulate physiological functions over a 24-hour cycle.
• These rhythms play a crucial role in host defense mechanisms and susceptibility to pathogens.
• The interplay between the circadian clock and viral infections is a growing area of research with significant implications for public health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current knowledge on the interaction between the circadian clock and viral infections.
• To discuss the role of circadian rhythms in host susceptibility, antiviral responses, and pathogenesis.
• To identify research priorities for developing chronotherapy against viral infections, including SARS-CoV-2.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and synthesis of existing research on circadian rhythms and viral infections.
• Summary of findings from a European Biological Rhythms Society (EBRS) workshop.
• Identification of key research questions and translational opportunities.

Main Results:

• The circadian clock significantly regulates viral replication, host immune responses, and disease progression.
• Evidence highlights the multifaceted role of circadian rhythms in influencing host susceptibility, antiviral immunity, and overall resilience.
• Discussions identified critical knowledge gaps and potential therapeutic targets.

Conclusions:

• The circadian clock is a key determinant in the host-pathogen interaction during viral infections.
• Leveraging chronobiology offers promising avenues for novel therapeutic strategies against viral diseases.
• Further research is needed to translate chronobiological insights into effective clinical interventions for viral infections.