Circadian Rhythm - Metabolism Link Discovered

I think we all kinda assumed that there was a link between our biological clocks and how much energy our cells use. But the assumption/theory has been proven. The protein CLOCK which regulates our biological clock, works in equilibrium with the protein SIRT1 -- which regulates energy consumption by our cells.

Our circadian clocks are estimated to regulate around 15% of our genes. So naturally if there is a disruption in the balance between the two proteins mentioned, then normal cellular function itself will also be disrupted. So basically changes in our sleep patterns and our diets can directly affect cellular action.

Now the importance in this discovery is that treatment can be directed towards the CLOCK-SIRT1 equilibrium and help manage or solve social problems like diabetes and obesity.

Original article here.