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Circadian clocks in the digestive system
Anneleen Segers1, Inge Depoortere2
1Translational Research Center for Gastrointestinal Disorders, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
Nature Reviews. Gastroenterology & Hepatology
|February 3, 2021
Summary
The body's internal circadian system and digestive system clocks regulate daily physiological processes. This review explores how these clocks influence digestion, metabolism, and gut health, offering insights into chronodisruption treatments.
Area of Science:
- Chronobiology
- Gastroenterology
- Metabolism
Background:
- Circadian rhythms govern molecular, physiological, and behavioral processes over 24 hours.
- The master clock in the suprachiasmatic nucleus synchronizes peripheral clocks via light-dark cycles and feeding times.
- Peripheral clocks in the digestive system anticipate daily nutrient availability.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the diurnal regulation of gastrointestinal processes by circadian clocks.
- To discuss the interplay of circadian clocks in digestion, metabolism, and gut microbiota.
- To outline strategies for managing chronodisruption effects.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of existing knowledge on circadian regulation in the digestive system.
- Synthesis of information on diurnal control of gastrointestinal function, hormones, and microbiota.
- Analysis of interactions between central and peripheral circadian clocks and entraining factors.
Main Results:
- Circadian clocks in the digestive tract and accessory organs diurnalmente regulate digestion, motility, hormones, and barrier function.
- Interactions between digestive system circadian clocks influence glucose, lipid, and bile acid metabolism.
- Bidirectional communication exists between the master clock and peripheral digestive clocks, influenced by various entraining factors.
Conclusions:
- Circadian clocks play a critical role in maintaining gastrointestinal homeostasis and metabolic health.
- Understanding these rhythms is crucial for addressing health issues arising from chronodisruption.
- Behavioral and pharmacological interventions can mitigate adverse effects of disrupted circadian rhythms.
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