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Abnormalities of Rest-Activity and Light Exposure Rhythms Associated with Cognitive Function in Patients with Mild

Seong Jae Kim1,2, Jung Hie Lee3,4, Jae-Won Jang5

  • 1Department of Psychiatry, Chosun University College of Medicine, Gwangju, South Korea.

Journal of Circadian Rhythms
|January 1, 2024
PubMed

Insights

Rest-activity rhythm and light exposure rhythm were not disrupted in mild cognitive impairment (MCI). However, circadian rhythm stability impacts executive function in MCI patients, suggesting altered brain mechanisms.

Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Gerontology
  • Chronobiology

Background:

  • Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) affects cognition and may impact daily rhythms.
  • Understanding circadian rhythm differences in MCI is crucial for potential interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To compare rest-activity rhythm (RAR) and light exposure rhythm (LER) between MCI patients and normal controls (NC).
  • To investigate the relationship between these rhythms and cognitive functions in older adults.

Main Methods:

  • Actigraphy was used to record RAR and LER over 5 days in 10 MCI patients and 8 NC (aged >50).
  • Nonparametric analyses calculated rhythm variables (stability, variability, amplitude).
  • Generalized linear models explored associations between rhythms and neuropsychological test performance.

Main Results:

  • No significant differences in overall RAR or LER variables were found between MCI and NC groups.
  • RAR stability positively correlated with Stroop Color and Word Test performance.
  • Group interactions revealed specific associations: RAR stability with Trail Making Test-A, and LER variability with Boston Naming Test in MCI.

Conclusions:

  • Circadian rhythms (RAR, LER) are not overtly disrupted in MCI.
  • Circadian rhythm stability is linked to executive function, but not processing speed or language in MCI.
  • Findings suggest altered pathophysiology in MCI regarding circadian rhythm and cognitive decline, particularly in executive functions.
Keywords:
cognitive performancelight exposure rhythm (LER)mild cognitive impairment (MCI)nonparametric variablesrest-activity rhythm (RAR)

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