CLOCK Genes and Circadian Rhythmicity in Alzheimer Disease

Abstract

Disturbed circadian rhythms with sleep problems and disrupted diurnal activity are often seen in patients suffering from Alzheimer disease (AD). Both endogenous CLOCK genes and external Zeitgeber are responsible for the maintenance of circadian rhythmicity in humans. Therefore, modifications of the internal CLOCK system and its interactions with exogenous factors might constitute the neurobiological basis for clinically observed disruptions in rhythmicity, which often have grave consequences for the quality of life of patients and their caregivers. Presently, more and more data are emerging demonstrating how alterations of the CLOCK gene system might contribute to the pathophysiology of AD and other forms of dementia. At the same time, the impact of neuropsychiatric medication on CLOCK gene expression is under investigation.

Document Details

Document Type
Pub Defense Publication
Publication Date
Jan 01, 2011
Source ID
10.4061/2011/383091

Entities

People

  • A. G. Woods
  • A. N. Coogan
  • Costel C Darie
  • F. Häßler
  • J. Thome

Organizations

  • Army Research Office
  • Clarkson University
  • University of Rostock

Tags

Fields of Study

  • Medicine

Readers

  • Circadian Sleep-Wake Regulation and Chronobiology
  • Immunology and Pathology
  • Molecular Biology and Genetics