Light at night disrupts biological clocks, calendars, and immune function
William H Walker1, Jacob R Bumgarner1, Darius D Becker-Krail1
1Department of Neuroscience, Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute, West Virginia University, 108 Biomedical Road, BMRC Room 370, Morgantown, WV, 26506, USA.
Seminars in Immunopathology
|November 3, 2021
Summary
Artificial light at night (ALAN) disrupts the body's internal clock and weakens immune function. This widespread light pollution negatively impacts circadian rhythms and melatonin production, affecting overall health.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Chronobiology
- Immunology
Background:
- Light pollution is a growing global issue, with over 80% of the population affected.
- Artificial light at night (ALAN) is increasing due to urbanization, night work, and smart device use.
- ALAN negatively impacts the circadian system and immune function, contrary to previous assumptions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the effects of ALAN on circadian clocks and immune function.
- To highlight the broad consequences of ALAN exposure across different species.
- To identify future research directions in this field.
Main Methods:
- Literature review synthesizing existing research on ALAN and its biological impacts.
- Analysis of studies examining ALAN's effects on clock gene expression and melatonin.
- Review of research on ALAN's influence on inflammation and immune responses.
Main Results:
- ALAN alters clock gene expression and suppresses melatonin production.
- Light at night affects both innate and adaptive immune systems.
- Consequences of ALAN exposure vary across species, indicating a wide range of impacts.
Conclusions:
- ALAN poses a significant threat to circadian regulation and immune health.
- Understanding ALAN's impact is crucial given its pervasiveness.
- Further research is needed to fully elucidate and address the health consequences of ALAN.
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