Association between CLOCK Gene Polymorphisms and Insomnia Risk According to Food Groups: A KoGES Longitudinal Study

Area of Science:

• Genetics and Circadian Biology
• Nutritional Epidemiology
• Sleep Medicine

Background:

• The clock circadian regulator (CLOCK) gene plays a crucial role in regulating circadian rhythms, which can influence sleep patterns.
• Previous research suggests a link between the CLOCK gene and insomnia risk, but the influence of dietary factors remains underexplored.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between CLOCK gene polymorphisms (rs12649507 and rs4580704) and insomnia risk.
• To examine the interaction effects of specific food groups on the relationship between CLOCK gene variants and insomnia.
• To determine if these interactions differ between males and females.

Main Methods:

• A longitudinal study involving 1430 adults, with new insomnia cases identified between 2005 and 2012.
• Genotyping of CLOCK gene single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) rs12649507 and rs4580704.
• Assessment of dietary intake and analysis using Cox proportional hazard models to evaluate gene-diet interactions.

Main Results:

• CLOCK rs12649507: In males, fruit and meat intake mitigated insomnia risk. In females, beverage intake exacerbated insomnia risk.
• CLOCK rs4580704: In males, fruit and meat intake modified insomnia risk. In females, beverage intake exacerbated insomnia risk.
• Significant gene-diet interactions were observed, with distinct effects in males and females regarding specific food groups and CLOCK gene variants.

Conclusions:

• Insomnia risk associated with CLOCK gene polymorphisms is significantly modified by dietary intake.
• Fruit and meat consumption may offer a protective effect against insomnia related to CLOCK variants in males.
• Beverage consumption appears to increase insomnia risk associated with CLOCK variants in females.