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Updated: May 22, 2025

Analysis of Circadian Photoresponses in Drosophila Using Locomotor Activity
Beyond vision: effects of light on the circadian clock and mood-related behaviours
1Department of Biology, University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland.
Abstract:
Light is a crucial environmental factor that influences various aspects of life, including physiological and psychological processes. While light is well-known for its role in enabling humans and other animals to perceive their surroundings, its influence extends beyond vision. Importantly, light affects our internal time-keeping system, the circadian clock, which regulates daily rhythms of biochemical and physiological processes, ultimately impacting mood and behaviour. The 24-h availability of light can have profound effects on our well-being, both physically and mentally, as seen in cases of jet lag and shift work. This review summarizes the intricate relationships between light, the circadian clock, and mood-related behaviours, exploring the underlying mechanisms and its implications for health.
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