Scientists have long known that sleep and circadian rhythms play a crucial role in human health, influencing metabolism, immunity, and cognitive performance. The article explains that many aspects of sleep such as duration, quality, and whether someone is naturally a morning or evening person, are moderately heritable, meaning genetics contributes significantly to these traits. Because of this, researchers are increasingly turning to genetic studies to uncover how specific DNA variations shape our sleep patterns and why disruptions in these biological rhythms can increase the risk of chronic diseases. The review highlights recent progress in identifying genes linked to sleep behavior and circadian timing, emphasizing how genetic research is helping clarify the biological foundations of sleep and its impact on overall health.
Link: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41576-022-00519-z
A large genetics study found that specific gene variations regulating sleep cycles are strongly linked to an individual’s risk for depression. People with a genetically “delayed” circadian rhythm are more likely to develop mental health disorders.
This study is important because it shows how our genes influence behaviors and emotions in ways we might not realize. Understanding these connections could improve mental health treatments and help personalize therapy based on genetic profiles.
This study is important because it shows how our genes influence behaviors and emotions in ways we might not realize. Understanding these connections could improve mental health treatments and help personalize therapy based on genetic profiles.
Link: https://www.researchgate.net/figure/Genetic-Correlations-of-Depression-BIP-I-BIP-II-with-Biological-Rhythms-rggenetic_fig1_363736302
I wonder how this will impact night shift workers, such as me. It is interesting to read about the effects that the Circadian rhythm has on people, but what about our overnight workers?
ReplyDeleteI would have never though our genes could effect our sleep patterns or even influence mental health. I always thought bad mental health or thrown off sleep patterns was an effect of our surrounding and situationally changed. This was a very interesting read.
ReplyDeleteI agree with this article, I have first hand experience working the grave shift (10pm-4am) at the casino for several years, and I didn't realize it at the time but once i switch back to day shift my entire mood was so much better and i felt like a normal person again, so i can see how this personally affected me and based on your article i'm not alone.
ReplyDeleteThis is such an interesting post! It does make sense that mental health and sleep patterns are intertwined, but adding a genetic component as well, makes it feel more real and understandable. I feel like this research is a good way to influence personalized treatment for mental health as well!
ReplyDelete